The Eureka Springs Highlanders had two eventful soccer games following a loss against 4A Berryville on Monday. The boys’ team took on Lead Hill on Tuesday, ending their first conference game with a win in penalty kicks.
After Tuesday’s win, the Highlanders celebrated with a team lunch at the high school, cooked by Coach Hyatt himself.
Then, Lincoln came to Leatherwood field for the Highlanders’ second home game of the week. The girls lost 2-1 after a well-fought game, and the boys’ game ended in a much deserved 1-0 victory for Eureka. Goalie Preston Hyatt and the Highlanders’ defense and played a great game, stopping all scoring attempts by Lincoln.
“This is exactly how we wanted to start our season,” senior captain Kayden Eckman said. Kayden was one of four who took the penalty kicks at the end of Tuesday’s game. The other kickers were Zach Nelson, Griffin Taylor, and Gustavo Tapia. Hyatt was in goal for Eureka, as the Highlanders pulled in a close win.
On Thursday, March 28, both teams faced Lincoln. Senior Captain Ana Tapia scored the Lady Highlanders first and only goal, and the girls ultimately lost the game. When asked about the girls’ team, Grayson Ertel, a captain and junior said, “This year’s girls’ team is a team of beginners, but that has not stopped us from giving our best no matter the circumstances. I am extremely proud of how much we have improved and cannot wait to see what lies ahead.”
Griffin Taylor was the only one to score in the following boys’ game. The rough game resulted in two Lincoln players being red-carded. Lincoln also drew five yellow cards, while the Highlanders just had one.
On Monday, the Highlanders traveled to Green Forest to face their third opponent from the 3A North West Conference. On Thursday, April 4, the Highlanders will travel to Decatur for their fourth conference game. With two games this week, please come and support our Highlanders!