Geckos, Tatagas slip past MS soccer foes

The Saipan International School Geckos and Tanapag Middle School Tatagas slipped past their foes in the 2022-2023 NMIFA-PSS Interscholastic Soccer League after winning their games last Thursday at the NMI Soccer Training Center in Koblerville.

The Geckos had a lopsided win against the DanDan Middle School Tottots, 6-2; while the Tatagas had a tight game against Chacha Ocean View Middle School, 3-2.

In the first game of the afternoon, Beatrice Gross handed the Geckos their first goal in the second minute. Just four minutes later, Gross had a handle of the ball again for an early 2-0 lead.

The Geckos controlled the first half as Aubrey White kicked in two goals of her own in the 10th and 16th minute. Teammate Anne Lee rounded up the Geckos’ goals in the 19th and 26th minute, while the Tottots still have not replied.

The Tottots then finally scored in the 34th minute made by Jahsmin Ramon for a 6-1 game. However, it was too little too late for the Tottots as time ran out and Ramon scored their last goal in the 45th minute as the Geckos clinched the W.

In the Tatagas-Lancherus game later, it was an even playing field as they took turns at the goal.

Pualani Dela Cruz of COVMS drew first blood in the 11th minute, but was immediately replied by Hailey Benavente two minutes later for a tied game.

The Tatagas’ Xyriel Pascual then broke the tie in the 16th minute and it was quiet until Mya Abraham tied up the game once again.

Then, when it seemed like the game would end in a stalemate, the Tatagas’ Benavente pulled up with a goal in the 34th minute which the Lancherus were not able to tie again, resulting in a win for the Tatagas.

The Tatagas are now tied on top of the standings with Hopwood Middle School at 3 wins and 1 draw each; the Geckos are at 2 wins and 2 draws; Francisco M. Sablan Middle School is still at 1 win and 3 losses; DMS is at 1 win and 3 loss; while the COVMS are at 4 losses.

Published by Saipan Tribune - Feb 28 2023