The Mount Mercy Academy Soccer team met one of its season’s goals, but unfortunately the results were not as it had hoped.  The Magic earned a spot in the championships by defeating Christian Central but lost a hard-fought game to Cardinal O’Hara in the championship game.

                Mount Mercy won its semi-final game 4-0 against CCA.  The Magic scored its first goal on a corner kick. Freshman Rosie Bandura (West Seneca) kicked it to senior Gianna Lauciello (Orchard Park) who headed it to sophomore Abby Mailloux who kicked it into the net.  The next two goals were scored by Bandura, converting passes from junior Mary Bea Lalley (Buffalo).  The final goal was scored by junior Madison Edwards (Buffalo) on a corner kick from Bandura.

                The defense for Mount Mercy was strong, led by senior Anna Schieber (Buffalo) and freshman goalie Amelia Lalley (Buffalo).

                Mount Mercy battled hard against O’Hara but ended up losing 1-0.  The team adjusted its defense and kept O’Hara from utilizing its breakaways.  The Magic passed and moved the ball well but were unable to get the ball into the net, despite many opportunities.

                “Despite the loss, Coach Maddie Higgins and I are very proud of this team,” Coach Brittany Myers stated.  “They worked hard to get into the championship and fought hard all game.  The team came a long way this season.”

                Mount Mercy finished the year with a league record of 7-3-1. Although the team will miss the leadership and talents of its four seniors, the future looks bright for Mount Mercy soccer.