By Oly Archibald
PORT ANGELES — The Port Angeles Roughriders soccer team went on the road to Class 1A King’s High School and earned a hard-fought 1–0 win.
Freshman standout Emma Desjardins scored the deciding goal in the 58th minute, taking a perfect throw-in from Brook Brody and firing a laser shot from 18 yards straight on into the back of the net.
Head coach Dan Horton emphasizes weight room training for his athletes, and it shows in the Roughriders’ size and physical play. Sophomore Mariah Traband was a force in the box, registering four shots with two on goal, while Teanna Clark added three shots on frame. Goalie Kennedy Rognlien faced limited pressure but was flawless when tested, finishing with four saves.
Freshman Emma Desjardins scored her first varsity goal against King’s — and it proved to be the game-winner
Coach Horton praised his defense and the debut performance of Desjardins.
“Cayleigh Alward helped lead our defensive effort and Becca Manson controlled the midfield. It was great to see Emma score in her first varsity game.”
The Roughriders host Class 1A Klahowya tonight at 5:45. The Eagles bring a strong program, coming off a 14-7-1 season.
Roughrider soccer players Sophia Ritchie and Pyper Alton discussed their upcoming season on Friday night’s Roughriders VIP Halftime Show on KONP Newsradio
Looking ahead, KONP Newsradio will carry its first-ever soccer broadcast October 21st when Port Angeles travels to Sequim. The broadcast is a thank-you to parents and fans of both programs for their support of the KONP crew, and to the student-athletes for their dedication in the classroom, the weight room, and on the field.
On the gridiron, Port Angeles football is still searching for answers after dropping its 10th straight game, a 47–12 loss to Mount Baker. The Roughriders now prepare to host 2B Forks on Friday night. Forks has won three straight in the series, including a 13–7 victory last season. After that, PA faces a tough league opener at North Mason in two weeks. North Mason beat the Riders last year and opened this season by blowing out Klahowya.
Meanwhile, Sequim knocked off Forks on the road Friday night, 18–14. The Wolves travel to Everett this Friday to face Class 4A Mariner. The Marauders went 1–9 last year and opened this season with a 25–13 loss to Mount Vernon. You can hear Sequim vs. Mariner right here on KONP Newsradio.