In a grudge match against Hart, San Marcos came up on the short end of a 1-0 girls soccer decision at Warkentin Stadium.
Hart was the team that eliminated the Royals in last year’s CIF playoffs.
“It was a very physical, very tight game,” San Marcos coach Macie Berlin said.
The physical play took its toll on the Royals as Chloe Hamer suffered a blow to the head and left game.
Hart got behind San Marcos’ defense and scored the game’s only goal in the 25th minute.
San Marcos drew a penalty kick in the 72nd minute but the spot kick was saved by the goalkeeper.
Berlin said her goalkeeper Hannah Harrah played an outstanding match.
“She just swept up everything and did absolutely tremendous,” she said.
Despite the tough loss, Berlin was pleased how the team played from the beginning to the end. “This was our best 80-minutes of the season,” she said. “It was a great game but we didn’t get the outcome. I’m very proud of the girls.”
