After a preseason full of missed opportunities, the Freedom High girls soccer team has started the Bay Valley Athletic League season 2-0 for the first time in years. Overall, the Falcons started 4-5-1.

“We have been close in years past but haven’t been able to put it all together,” said head coach Paco Gonzalez. “We have seven seniors on the squad who meet regularly and are leading the way in what we hope will be a BVAL championship and more. … We’re looking forward to gaining momentum in the weeks to come. There’s no one player that we rely on. It truly is a team effort.”

In a 1-0 victory over Heritage, Mackenzie Tovani scored the game-winning goal – a followup to Tovani’s two goals in the previous game against Antioch. That contest also featured two goals from Selena Gonzalez, one apiece from Gianna DiMercurio and Bianca Corona, and assists from Anna Carter, Catherine Carter, Vanessa Cortez and Madison Kimball.

The Falcon defense held firm against Heritage. Anchoring the middle are rock-solid Cathy Cook and Anna Carter. Gonzalez and Haley Vredenburgh run the outsides with remarkable energy. And freshman goalie Tess Harrington has been a pleasant surprise, gaining confidence with every game.

– Contributed by Lisa Carter