Rio Mesa breaks through late on Owls

Laguna Blanca’s girls soccer team dropped a 1-0 decision to Rio Mesa on Thursday in the first game of the Grace Brethren Tournament.

Neither team could get the upper hand until the Spartans took advantage of a turnover for a breakaway goal.

Laguna almost scored on a few occasions, including Tiana Bonn’s shot off the crossbar and Morgan Raith’s near game-tying goal in the second half.

“For a second we thought it was in, but their keeper made the save,” said Owls head coach Kevin Shertzer.

“I’m extrememly happy with our performance today against a very strong team. We showed heart and determination and never gave up, even after they scored.”

The Owls (0-2) return to tournament play on Friday with a home game.