Union-Bulletin

MILTON-FREEWATER - The Mac-Hi girls soccer team wanted revenge for a 5-0 whipping at the hands of Riverside last Wednesday, and Tuesday's rematch at home was its chance.

In typical soccer fashion, it was a 1-1 draw.

Although it wasn't for lack of trying, Mac-Hi coach Martin Martinez said.

"We dominated most of the game," Martinez said. "We outshot them 20-7. We came out fired up and they (the players) really wanted revenge."

Milton-Freewater was the first to draw blood, scoring on a Veronica Garcia goal with an assist from Mica Epifanio five minutes into the second half.

Several minutes later came the equalizer, as the Pioneer defense broke down and Riverside managed to put the ball past goaltender Kaylyn Odman.

Odman was on fire in the match-up despite the goal, denying the Pirates on six other shots-on-goal, even after taking a big hit.

"(Odman) was the most important player today," Martinez said. "There was a 1-on-1 situation and the ball got away from the (Riverside) forward, both (Odman) and the forward went for the ball, and she got the cleats in the face."

In the final minutes of the match, Mac-Hi sent a barrage at the Riverside net, but could not push the ball over the line.

"In the last two minutes of the game, we sent everyone forward," Martinez said. "We wanted to win that game."

Martinez said, despite being a draw, the game was a confidence booster for the Pioneers.

"Both teams played hard," Martinez said. "Riverside didn't give up, but my girls stand their ground at home."