By Duncan Nixon
On March 26, the Fluvanna High girls’ soccer team opened Jefferson District play, hosting the Patriots from Albemarle High. The Flucos entered the game with a 2-1-1 record but fell 5-1. The team is very young, with several freshmen playing key roles.
Both teams generated early shots on goal, each turned away by the respective goalkeepers. The Flucos’ first shot came from freshman Madeline Bruton. Fellow freshman Gabriella Gray got the start in goal and, though new to the position, was tested often in the first half and performed well.
Midway through the half, an errant throw-in by the Flucos led to a Patriots breakaway that proved unstoppable.
Late in the first half, Albemarle struck again on a well-executed set piece, heading in a corner kick from point-blank range. The Patriots, who showed both speed and depth, controlled play for much of the half.
As in the opening period, both teams created chances early in the second half, with each goalkeeper making key stops. Gray highlighted her effort with an outstanding save on a shot that appeared destined for the net.
Fifteen minutes into the half, the Patriots added their third goal, and as they continued to control possession, the outcome became clear. Eight minutes later, a long “Bend It Like Beckham”-style shot found the upper right corner for a 4-0 lead. Albemarle added a fifth goal at the 6:35 mark.
With 5:34 remaining, Fluco freshman Annaly Correa broke up the shutout with a long shot from the left side that sailed high and inside the right post.
Fluvanna saw strong play in the second half from sophomore Claire Petrylak and senior Reese Yowell.
The Flucos travel to Monticello High on April 2. After a short break, they host Orange County on April 13 before traveling to Charlottesville High on April 16. They return home April 20 and 23 to face Western Albemarle and Louisa.
