APEX — A matinee match Saturday resulted in the Richmond boys’ soccer team’s third straight loss.
In rare fashion, the Raiders were ousted 9-1 by Rolesville High School.
Playing in the North Carolina Coaches Association’s Kickoff Classic at Middle Creek Park, Richmond couldn’t keep pace with the undefeated Rams (6-0).
Rolesville scored five goals in the first half and its final four goals in the second half.
Head coach Chris Larsen said a lack of effort and too many miscues were the main culprits in the loss.
“The guys didn’t come ready to play today,” Larsen commented. “We had a slow start, we turned the ball over and couldn't keep possession. We also made too many mistakes in the back.
“I’d say we probably gave them six goals because of our mental mistakes and not doing what we’ve been coached to do,” he added. “We didn’t execute things as well as we did in the first three games. I hope this was an eye-opening experience for the guys and that they come back ready for next week.”
The Rams scored in the first minute after intercepting a pass deep in Richmond’s own zone. Playing in net was junior Camden Williams, who continued his netminding in the absence of senior starter Adrian Padron (injury).
What Larsen called “the one bright spot” of the match came in the sixth minute when junior Elen Fonseca scored Richmond’s only goal, which was also his first varsity tally.
Catching the keeper off his line, Fonseca struck a dart from around 35 yards that sailed under the crossbar.
Rolesville netted four more goals before the break — including scores in the 16th, 19th and 30th minutes, and one more in the closing minutes of the first half.
The second half saw the Rams find the back of the net in the 45th, 56th and 74th minutes ahead of their final goal late in the game.
Richmond, which is now 1-3 on the season, has two more non-conference matches slated for next week.
Up first will be a road match at St. Pauls High School (1-1-1) Monday, followed by a home match Wednesday with East Mecklenburg High School (1-2).
Sports editor’s note: Chris Larsen and Andy Summerlin contributed to this article.
