The Prairie High School girls soccer team claimed a commanding win on home turf against league opponent Heritage High School with a 9-2 score on Thursday, Sept. 21.
The Falcons were slated to host rival Battle Ground High School on Tuesday, Sept. 19, but that game was canceled due to illness and has yet to be rescheduled. The second installment of the rivalry is still slated for Tuesday, Oct. 17, where the Falcons will face off against the Tigers at District Stadium.
Despite the big win against Heritage, Prairie head coach Ryan Glaser would certainly like to see the team play with intensity, no matter the opponent.
“I thought the girls kind of came out a little flat in that first half, but they fixed the little things, and we came out in the second half and played our game,” Glaser said.
Glaser was pleased with the second half as his Falcons played simply and kept the ball moving and dominated possession of the ball.
Senior captain Maddie Thorsen was key in the win. The midfielder posted one goal and one assist in limited time on the field in the Falcons’ shutout of the Heritage Timberwolves.
Thorsen is already committed to Division II powerhouse Colorado Mesa University, where the Mavericks are currently ranked fifth in the nation in the United Soccer Coaches Top 25 NCAA Division II Women’s poll from Sept. 19.
“It means a lot because I feel like all my hard work is finally paying off,” Thorsen said of her commitment to Colorado Mesa University. “I get to see like the past 10 years of my life go toward greater things. … I’m excited to be on a team with everyone who has the same ambitions and just the same level. Everyone wants it as much as each other.”
In the first half of her senior season, the Falcons have faced some challenges.
“I feel like we’re going through a lot of hardships with injuries right now, but I think we’re doing a good job of pushing through it and finding success even with everyone who’s been hurt,” Thorsen said.
Thorsen and the Falcons have a tough league schedule ahead with the likes of Mountain View High School, with whom Prairie tied in their match Sept. 11. Prairie will face Mountain View for the last time during the regular season Thursday, Oct. 5 on the road.
“3A is going to be a good battle, especially when we come up against Mountain View again in a couple of weeks.” Glaser said. “Kelso and, of course, Evergreen will be right there.”
The Prairie Falcons traveled to Evergreen High School on Tuesday, Sept. 26 in their third 3A Greater St. Helens League conference game this season. Results were not available before press time.
Next up is a non-league matchup against the Camas Papermakers Monday, Oct. 2 at 7 p.m. at Doc Harris Stadium. The game against Camas High School is also available to watch with a subscription on the NFHS Network. The Falcons will follow their non-league game with a home matchup against their conference opponent Kelso High School at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 3.
