Huddles of Highlanders layered in raincoats flooded the bleachers of McLean’s stadium on March 24th as McLean battled the South Lakes Seahawks in their second game of the season.
As their season opener had proved successful with a win against Chantilly 20-12, the hopes and expectations were already set high.
However, the challenge of playing on a slippery and wet field led the game to get off to a rough start, both teams having had difficulty in gaining much traction while running down the field.
Although it was clear McLean wasn’t willing to leave without a win, their shouts and hollers of tips and encouragement thundering off the field, the first quarter ended 0-0.
Starting off the second quarter, sophomore Landon Moore swiftly scored the Highlanders’ first goal less than two minutes in.
Just as McLean was getting a chance to celebrate, South Lakes sweeped in, tying the score once again, 1-1.
The small setback, however, did not deter the Highlanders’ energy as less than two minutes later, they raised the score up a point, sophomore Max Mullen having taken the credit.
Mere minutes later, while scoring McLean an additional goal, senior Davis Sawyer was brutally collided into. As he was carried off the field to be assessed for damage, the second quarter ended 3-1, Sawyer having sacrificed his health for McLean’s lead.
Despite the loss of one of their star players, McLean continued to compete with vigor.
As the sky became enveloped in darkness, the third quarter became characterized by swift passes and strong defense for McLean with South Lakes struggling to advance.
The score stood 4-1 as the third quarter wrapped up and the fourth just started to begin, McLean having narrowly increased their lead.
With showers beating down harder than ever and flooding the field, McLean continued to play and give the game their all, not satisfied with the scoreboard yet.
This vigor seemed to pay off as before one could blink, three additional goals were made, McLean having leveled the score to 7-1.
As the clock ticked down, South Lakes, racing against time, was able to put up two rapid goals. Unfortunately, the vibrant energy that they had just displayed had appeared a little too late as the buzzer signaled the end of the game.
The scoreboard stood 7-3 as supporters exited the stands, McLean building up a winning streak for themselves.
“I’m feeling great [about our team’s dynamic]; we played well and were 3-1 most of the game so we can’t ask for better,” junior goalie Hugh Hancock said. “This is the best team I’ve been a part of so I’m looking forward to the rest of the season.”
