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By Mike Flanagan
Hometown Weekly Sports Editor
The Wellesley High School girls varsity soccer team opened up its 2019 season last Thursday afternoon at home against Weymouth.
The Raiders (2-0-0) began their season on the right note, thanks to first half goals by Rory Clare and Olivia Francis, followed by a shutdown defensive effort in the second half, to earn a 3-1 victory. Less than 24 hours later, the Lady-Raiders traveled to Braintree and earned a 2-0 victory for their second win in as many days.
Sophomore midfielder Catherine Smith (14) moves the ball up the field early in the first half. Photos by Mike Flanagan
With exactly 21 minutes to play in the half, Weymouth tied the game at one with a goal off a breakaway.
Just two minutes later, however, Wellesley fought back. Rory Clare broke in uncontested for a one-on-one with the Weymouth keeper. Clare’s shot was saved, but the rebound came right to Francis, who stood about 20 yards away. Francis unleashed a cannon of a shot that went bar-down and in to reclaim the lead for Wellesley at 2-1 with 18:41 to play in the half. Wellesley tightened up defensively and brought their one-goal lead into halftime.
The game remained 2-1 in favor of Wellesley late in the second half, thanks to shutdown defensive play by the Raider backs. Lulu Rourke sealed the season-opening win for the Raiders with a goal with 5:05 remaining.
Wellesley will look to keep up the momentum when the Raiders travel to Brookline on September 19.
For funny and incisive sports analysis, follow Mike Flanagan on his personal Twitter and Instagram @flano0.
