The Galena Pirates traveled to Pectotonica, but not by normal means. They had to take coach or player-driven vehicles because of the lack of transportation provided. This was not an ideal start for the soccer team, game, or season, but they played through it.
They showed up for pre-game and were ready for the challenge that Pecatonica was going to give them. They started the match on time, and they were caught off guard in the first half, letting up an early goal and went down 0-1. Not the start they were looking for, but they played through. After letting up that goal, they were a defensive team. They shut down any attacks Pecotonica tried conjuring and went into the half down 0-1, but with the mentality of the only thing that matters at the end of the day is winning.
The second half was underway, and Galena was ready and came out not looking to back down. Avery Zeigler ‘25 broke away and was able to score for the Pirates, evening the score to 1-1. After that, the Pirates stayed on the gas, and junior Daniella Bello was able to score just as efficiently. She scored once and then again, making the score 3-1 to end the match.
The game was a great win for the Pirates, even after transportation difficulty. Defender Violet Doyle ‘26 commented, “For being our first game of the year, the team felt really in-tuned, and the communication was on point.” In soccer, it’s not all about the score. It’s about the feeling, the rush, the excitement, and the energy your teammates bring,” says Bello ‘26. “And it’s like magic when you find the back of the net. You realize that all the hard work is paying off and showing on the field. And with 2 goals and winning the game shows that it’s time to retire.”
