Nationally Ranked Dominate Rivals
by Tracie
Mollner
Throughout the season, the varsity soccer team has been climbing
its way to the top. Despite early victories over rivals Omaha Burke and
Millard North, the Crusadershope for more.
Marian was ranked fifth by the Omaha World Herald for a majority
of the season. They were also been ranked 20th nationally in the Umbro
poll in late April. ROur ultimate goal was be on top. We wanted to work
to be number one,S said senior co-captain Julie Ruma.
On May 4, the Crusaders hosted first ranked Omaha Westside. This
was their chance to help their cause. Marian defeated the Warriors 2-1 in
double overtime.
In the first half, Westside took the lead by scoring the first
goal of the game. RAfter that goal we became vicious,S said senior Erin
Mumm. RWe realized how bad we wanted this game.S
The score remained until seven minutes remained in the second
half. Marian received a penalty kick due to a handball by a Westside
player. Senior Nicky Hillebrandt cleared the goal line, equalizing the
scoreboard.
Neither team could pull ahead in the first overtime, causing an
additional ten minutes of play.
In the second overtime, Westside was charged with an intentional
drop to goalkeeper, giving Marian an indirect kick ten feet away from the
goal. Ruma shot the ball, while junior Julie Reisbig completed the goal
off of a deflection.
RI was ecstatic. That was the best feeling,S said Reisbig.
RThe Westside game was crazy. There was so much tension between
the two teams because we were both there to win,S said senior Jeanie
Bohnenkamp.
Prior to District play the team was confident. Millard South,
Lincoln Southeast and Omaha Northwest were all in competition with Marian
for a ticket to state. RI know that we will win Districts. ItUs just a
matter of focusing on one thing at a time,S said Bohnenkamp.
Marian has tough competition on the road ahead of them. If proven
victorious in Districts, the team will contend in State competition May
16, 18, and 20.
RThe best aspect of the season is knowing that we have the ability
to win State. With all of our young talent, thereUs no doubt in my mind
that we can make it to the top,S said Bohnenkamp.
RWinning state would be a great finish to the seniorsU high school
careers. It would be the icing on the cake,S said Ruma.