Hawks edge out Dinos in region eight opener

By Sun Advocate

With a light rain falling and thunder rumbling overhead, North Sanpete stole the first game of region play from the Dinos girl’s soccer squad on Wednesday afternoon by the score of 3-2. “The girls know they outplayed North Sanpete the entire game and the loss hurt,” commented Coach Jerald Upwall.
Carbon came out ready to play and was in control for the first half. Most of the action was on the Dino half of the field and they drew first blood. Felicia Olmos punched it in on an assist by Brittany McKibben. North Sanpete got on the board next, but the Dinos scored again before the half was over on another McKibben to Olmos play.
Jazmin Moncada returned to the line-up despite her ankle injury, but was pulled in the second half because she was in pain. With a less experienced sub in her place, North Sanpete scored their second goal. Carbon had another chance when Hannah Downard headed down field on a break away play. Less than 10 feet from the goal she was cleated from behind and was sent sprawling to the ground. When she was finally able to get up, she was awarded a penalty kick. It was blocked.
Upwall was still a bit miffed that a red card was not given, “She (Downard) could have been seriously hurt.”
North Sanpete scored again with 10 minutes left to play. It appeared the gaol would be negated by an off sides flag thrown by the line official. After a huddle and heated discussion, the call was overruled by the head official and the goal counted. With that, the Hawks secured the win.
Upwall was still pleased with what he saw on the field. “Our girls outplayed North Sanpete and but for a tough break here and there, the win should have been ours. In addition to the outstanding play of Olmos and McKibben, Upwall also praised the play of Sarah Norton and Downard.”
“Norton has improved tremendously. We moved Fish (Olmos) into the center middle spot and Sarah is now in the forward spot and playing well.” he said. Upwall went on to commend Downard’s performance as well, “Before she would dribble up the sidelines, now she is taking it right up the middle of the field.”
The Dinos have a seven day break before they head up to Juan Diego on Wednesday. They then return home on Friday Sept. 19 to run with the Delta Rabbits. Game time is 3:30 pm. behind Carbon High.