The Mount Mercy Academy soccer team had a tough week, losing two of its three games, although one was a non-league game.  The Magic split its two league games, defeating Central Christian and dropping a game to Cardinal O’Hara.

Mount Mercy opened its week with a non-league contest against West Seneca West.  Despite 26 saves by freshman goalie Amelia Lalley (Buffalo), the team lost 4-0.  The team held West Seneca West scoreless until there were fifteen minutes left.  The Magic had some injuries that led to the goals scored by West.  Lalley was named the team’s player of the game.

Next Mount Mercy played Central Christian and despite falling behind 2-0, battled back to win the game 3-2.  The Magic scored its first goal with two minutes left in the half, narrowing the advantage to 2-1.  Coach Brittany Myers changed some positions and encouraged her team to come out strong in the second half.  She credited senior Gianna Lauciello (Orchard Park) with shutting down the opponent’s offense when she moved to sweeper in the second half.  She earned player of the game honors.

Three different players scored for Mount Mercy.    Scoring for the Magic were senior Emily Kessler (West Seneca), sophomore Madelyn Hart (Buffalo) and freshman Rosie Bandura (West Seneca). Each of the goal scorers also had an assist.

Despite junior Mya Wood (Blasdell) opening the scoring against Cardinal O’Hara in the first minute, the Magic fell to Cardinal O’Hara 3-1.  Wood scored on a great pass Hart sent from the corner. Mount Mercy had 12 chances to score, but could not put the ball in the net.

Mount Mercy is in the semi-finals of the playoffs, starting with a rematch again Central Christian and hopefully a trip to the finals on Saturday the 14th. 

“Going into the playoffs we know that O’Hara is our biggest competition and know their strengths and weaknesses and are ready to compete against them,” Myers commented.