On Friday, Jan. 19 the varsity girls’ soccer team suffered a 2-1 defeat versus their district rivals, the Round Rock Dragons. Although the Lady Warriors started the match strong with a goal from Bailey Shuford ‘25, their failure to set up offensive plays throughout the remainder of the game ultimately contributed to their loss.

“This was overall a really competitive game with high energy,” Molly Harvey ‘24 said. “Everyone was really invested and putting their all into it. But I am disappointed by the loss, and how the ref didn’t call the handball in our box that led to Round Rock’s goal.”

The Lady Warriors got out to a fast start with Shuford smashing in a goal within the first five minutes. The attack began as a simple string of passes on Round Rock’s half until a cross was sent in, only to become a one-touch shot by Shuford that found the open center of the goal. This success initiated an uproar of excitement from Westwood’s fans, kicking off the match on a positive note. Despite this initial success, the rest of the half was rocky for the Lady Warriors. Possession resided on Westwood’s half of the field, where they were left defending Round Rock’s numerous attacks. Moreover, when Westwood would steal back possession they would fail to connect and set up offensive plays. Despite this, the Lady Warriors maintained their lead, keeping the Dragons out of goal.

The second half continued similarly with the Lady Warriors failing to gain possession and set up quality opportunities whenever they stole the ball. Due to this, possession once again resided in Westwood’s half. The Lady Warriors would suddenly find random spurts of offensive rigor, sending the ball up the field or down the line to forwards Kylie Denton ‘25 or Harvey, however, these plays ultimately failed due to the lack of open players to pass it off to. After Round Rock’s prolonged possession, they finally shot the ball from the top of the box, which would sail into the lower left side of the goal setting the score at 1-1. After another long period of similar gameplay, the Dragons shot again from the top box, sailing the ball into the upper right corner. With time running out the Lady Warriors were unable to equalize the Dragons’ goal, losing 2-1.

“I think we can improve on being more physical with the other team,” Harvey said. “We also need to play in sync with each other so that our playing can flow better.”

The Lady Warriors will play their next game versus the Vista Ridge Rangers on Friday, Jan. 26 at the Warrior Bowl.