The Outlaws faced tough teams in a rigorous preseason, and wrapped up with a tough 1-3 loss at home against The Dalles on Wednesday, September 14.

Sisters quickly established control of the midfield and created a few early chances, which put the Riverhawks on their heels. It looked as if the Outlaws had the edge, but at the seventh minute mark The Dallas scored.

Coach Jeff Husmann said, “They played a long ball over the top and our keeper made an aggressive play on the ball, but it resulted in a goal.”

The Outlaws continued to control the midfield, while the Riverhawks played a direct, boom-ball brand of soccer. Sisters got opportunities from both their forwards, Tate Kaczmarek and Aidan Eckert, but too often they hit the ball directly at the keeper, which made for easy saves.

Early in the second half, Eckert drew a foul inside the box. Vincent Christian calmly took the set piece and tucked the ball into the back of the net to equalize the score.

As the game progressed, fatigue set in for the Outlaws. A couple of injuries, along with their already-thin bench, allowed younger players to step up. Sophomore Danny Benson played huge minutes, and Husmann noted that he’s been working hard for a starting spot.

“Danny is learning how to be more physical, and has increased his work rate,” said Husmann. “I’m super pleased with his improvements.”

Momentum shifted to the Riverhawks midway through the second half. Sisters was a bit exposed in defense and they took advantage and posted a second goal in the 62nd minute.

The Outlaws couldn’t find the form they’d had in the first half, and six minutes later The Dalles scored again, and held on for the win.

Husmann said, “The boys have a very positive attitude as we enter league play. We have taken our knocks so far, but this team is really coming together. We are playing a solid brand of soccer. I am quite pleased how the team is establishing our identity as an organized and balanced team.”

Sisters was scheduled to play at Siuslaw on Monday, September 19. They will play at home against Elmira on Wednesday, September 21.