By Hannah Helbert

Even with multiple players still battling injuries, the Patrick County High School boys’ varsity soccer team proved to be a tough match for Bassett High School on April 30, before succumbing to defeat.

The Cougars lost to the Bengals 2-1.

“We played the top ranked team in the Piedmont and displayed our true talent,” said Oscar Tejeda, head coach.

Both teams remained scoreless until the second half. All three goals of the game would come in the final ten minutes of the game.

The Bengals scored the first goal of the game, but PCHS player, Jordan Dalton answered with a goal of his own. The Cougars continued to fight, but were unable to find the back of the net. As time was running out, the game was tied 1-1. However, a handball inside the box resulted in a penalty kick (PK) goal and sealed the win.

“We fought hard and didn’t stop,” Tejeda said. “Everybody knows that Patrick County is a tough team to beat. Even though we have lost 7 games this year and in those 7 losses, we have not been healthy. We are one of the best teams in the Piedmont. We just have to capitalize on our scoring opportunities and get every player back to 100 percent.”

The Cougars played George Washington – Danville on Friday, May 4 and lost 1-0.

“We played a back and forth match with both teams having opportunities to score. In the first half, we had four clear shots that we flubbed and missed. Our problem now is that when we create opportunities and get good open clear shots we are not finishing or chances,” said Tejeda.

“Tonight, it definitely hurt us. We ended up only getting a few more chances in the second half. We have the talent and a great team,” he said, adding “We have lost four games this year by one goal and in three of those games the goals have came late in the game.”