On April 17, the Phoenix boys clashed against the Loudoun Valley Vikings at yet another home game, which resulted in a final score of 3-2 with the Vikings taking the victory. During the first half, the Vikings were able to score early on by keeping the ball near the goal and waiting for an opening. The first half ended with the Vikings in the lead 1-0. 

During the second half, the pace of the game started to pick up. Within the first few minutes, the Phoenix tied the score back up with a goal from junior Carter DiValeiro. 

With around 28 minutes remaining in the game, the Phoenix earned another point with a goal from freshman Yousuf Jami. The goal allowed the Phoenix to take the lead with a score of 2-1.

However, shortly after the Phoenix’s goal, the Vikings scored yet again, tying the score 2-2 with only 24 minutes remaining in the second half. During the next play, senior Rishi Chawla injured his ankle in an attempt to stop a Viking attacker deep in Phoenix territory, saying that he had “felt a snap” in his ankle. Fortunately, it was only a moderate sprain, but he had to sub out for the remainder of the game. 

Just nine minutes later, the Phoenix boys took another hit, as junior Ibbi Rostom also injured his right shin. Taking advantage of the Phoenix’s tragic situation, the Vikings scored yet again, taking the lead with a score of 3-2.

In the final minutes, Jami found the ball in his possession with two minutes remaining, dribbling through defenders and taking a final shot. However, the ball bounced off the post, and the Vikings took the game with a final score of 3-2. 

The next home game for the Phoenix boys varsity soccer team will be on May 4 against the Dominion Titans.

Gallery • 8 Photos

Iyush Hoysal

Junior Ankur Gatupa sprints down the sideline as he fights for possession of the ball.