Last weekend was tough for Montezuma-Cortez High School soccer.
Opening a two-game slate in Ridgway on Sept. 19, the Panthers put forth a disappointing effort, losing 2-1 in overtime. The loss was discouraging in light of the fact that M-CHS defeated Ridgway 6-2 earlier this season.
“It was very disappointing to say the least,” said Panthers head coach Sean Fitzgerald. “We didn’t play how we should of.”
Scoring the loan goal for the Panthers in the defeat was Manual Martinez, whose second-half goal gave M-CHS a fighting chance.
“I took it in one on one with the goalie, shot it and scored,” said Martinez.
Hoping to get back to its winning ways against Telluride on Sept. 20, the Panthers played better, but lost again, by a score of 3-2.
Scoring in the first half goals for the Panthers were Andrew Laymon and Teryn Lanier.
With the game tied 2-2 to start the second half, the contest became physical and chippy as players exchanged verbal barbs.
After the game was delayed 15 minutes after a contested call midway into the second half, Telluride pulled ahead 3-2 after a successful penalty kick and hung on for the victory.
Clearly disappointed by his team’s loss, M-CHS goalie Bridger Brenner lamented missed opportunities, but expressed pride in his team’s ability to keep its composure during the often-physical game.
“I’m really impressed with how our team kept its cool,” said Brenner. “We played our game and kept our game on track.”
With the losses, M-CHS dropped to 4-4-0 on the season. The Panthers will look to rebound on the road against Bayfield on Sept. 23.