The soccer team showcased their strength with a decisive 5-1 win over Felix Varela Senior High School on Dec. 5. This victory solidified their record of four wins and two losses, demonstrating the Cavaliers’ strong start to the 2024 season.
With a 3:30 p.m. kickoff approaching, the team gathered on the field at 2:00 p.m. for their pre-match preparations. Players huddled together to prepare their plan for the upcoming game. The warm-up continued with passing drills and agility exercises to maintain sharpness on the field and help secure a victory
The match started at a measured pace, with both teams evaluating each other and testing their defensive lines. In the early minutes both teams continued to pass the ball to establish control. However, it was not long before the Cavaliers began to dominate possession. Their midfielders, led by junior Mateo Blaschke and senior Santiago Bergonzi, dictated the flow of the game. This control allowed the players to create consistent attacking opportunities and set the stage for the team’s offensive plays.
Senior Sky Carrizo opened the scoring after a well-executed play in the midfield. The defense stole the ball at center field and continued the play with accurate passing to transition the ball to an attacking position. Carrizo seized the opportunity, breaking away with the ball and executing a perfectly timed shot, scoring in the bottom of corner of the net.
“When the ball was in the midfield, I thought they were going to switch to the right side, and I wanted to center the ball to whoever was up top. But when I saw the assist to sky with that forward pass, I knew it was going to be a goal because of his initial control. I think it was one of the best team goals we have had so far,” junior Matteo Plaisir said.
Both teams found themselves equally matched in maintaining possession, leading to a struggle in moving the ball through the midfield. With constant movement and limited space it became harder for players to find a clear goal scoring opportunity. However, senior Bergonzi spotted an opening and seized the opportunity. He struck an impressive half-volley from 30 yards out that rocketed into the bottom corner, giving Gables a lead of 2-0.
“What made the goal more impressive was how unexpected it was. Considering where the ball was, I think both teams were just passing to see who could create space first. It was really exciting to see that [Bergonzi] took the risk from so far because we rarely see someone score from that far out,” sophomore David Perez said.
The team carried that momentum into the second half. Sophomore Lek Yam and freshman Piero Ramos each scored well-placed goals that extended the lead to 4-0. Gables midfielders continued to create plays with precision, creating space and finding their teammates. Although both teams were playing well and creating chances, it was Gables who controlled the movement of the ball. The Cavaliers ensured consistent pressure on Varela’s defense.
As the match progressed, the team began rotating players to keep the team fresh and maintain their high level of play. The substitutions brought in new energy, with players like freshman David Perez and junior Mason Wheeler playing a vital role in closing out the game.
Despite being behind, Varela’s team did not let their hopes go down as they continued to fight for a goal. Their persistence paid off as they maintained pressure and controlled possession for an extended period. With coordinated movement and strategic passes, they managed to break through Gables defense and their striker was left one on one against the keeper. After a moment of misjudgment in the defense, there was a foul in the box that led to a yellow card against Gables, giving Varela a chance from the penalty spot. Varela converted the penalty, narrowing the gap to 4-1.
“Even though we gave up the yellow card, I was glad to see the defenders give me a chance to try and stop the penalty. I would have wanted to stop it and continue the game 4-0 but I think there was some great saves throughout the game. I think our whole defense played well and it was a good win,” sophomore Santiago Lema said.
Despite this setback, the Cavaliers did not let their guard down. They pressed on, maintaining their dominance with smart passing and movement. In the final moments of the match, Gables offense created a counterattack and were able to kick a well-placed shot that ended in the back of the net, making the final score 5-1 and securing the home game victory.
“I think this year the soccer team has a good chance of making it to the playoffs and continue winning. I go to most of the games, and I feel like the communication this year is high. All the players are putting in the work in all positions. I would like to see them go against the top schools in Florida and show their talent,” sophomore Esteban Biurrarena said.
With this victory, the Cavaliers celebrated their continued success and looked ahead to their next challenge. The team is now focused on facing off against Palmetto Senior High School, aiming to extend their winning streak and strengthen their opportunities toward the playoffs.
