Special to the Opelika Observer
The Trinity Christian School varsity boys soccer team triumphed over the Crusaders of Heritage Academy in Braselton, Ga., by a score of 5-0 on the evening of Aug. 24.
Within the first 10 minutes of play, the Eagles’ Matt King bolted free twice for back to back goals. By halftime, Trinity had extended their lead to 4-0 on goals by DJ Johnson and Winston Durbin, with assists from Rick Hayley and Sam Schuessler.
After holding the Crusaders scoreless in the first half, Trinity’s usual goalkeeper, Trever Vordenbaum shifted to forward and made the lone goal of the second half.
Upon being asked the secret of the Eagles’ successful start this season, coach Dick Hayley said, “We couldn’t do it without our defense. Everyone hustles on defense and rests on offense. It’s a true team effort.”
Outstanding defensive players of the game for Trinity were William Patton, Will Givens and Tad York. On Aug. 28, the varsity boys of Bible Baptist Christian School from Hampton, Ga., braved hurricane Isaac’s rains to visit Opelika only to be defeated 7-4 by the Eagles.
Trinity jumped out to a 3-0 lead during the mostly sunny first half and had increased that to 5-1 by midway through the second half. As clouds gathered, coach Dick Hayley rested all of his starters. Then as a torrential rain fell, the visitors were able to close the score to 5-4 before Trinity’s starters returned to secure the final margin of victory.
Winston Durbin lead a patient Eagle ball control offense. Matt King netted two goals and an assist, while Rick Hayley banged home another goal and an assist. William Patton, DJ Johnson, Will Givens and Tad York were standouts for Trinity’s defense.
Trinity’s varsity is now 4-0 on the season. The Eagles took to their home field again at 4:30 p.m. on Aug. 31, facing Killian Hill Christian School from Lilburn, Ga.