THE DALLES - The Dalles High Riverhawks, playing their first game in eight days, continued their undefeated season in Class 4A boys soccer after winning, 4-1, at Madras on Oct. 16.
The Riverhawks (5-0 Tri-Valley Conference, 11-0-1 overall) have clinched a spot in the state playoffs for the fourth consecutive year. The 16-team playoffs begin with first-round games Nov. 5.
The Riverhawks, guided by fifth-year Coach Jesus Granados and assistant Coach Matt Dallman, trailed 1-0 at halftime. The Riverhawks responded to get their first come-from-behind victory of the season, aided by the performance of senior goalkeeper Marcos Meza (four saves).
“It’s always awesome to come back and win after falling behind,” said Granados. “I think we’ll have a very good chance to win the league title now. Marcos made some great saves, and he has really played very well for us all year.”
Senior midfielder Juan Camarillo, who leads the Riverhawks in scoring with 14 goals, junior forward Ivan Santana (two goals) and sophomore midfielder Ismael Cervantes each scored for the Riverhawks.
“I thought that it might’ve been kind of a tough game, but the boys have been practicing well and working hard, and they came out playing well motivated to get the win,” said Granados. “We just couldn’t capitalize on the scoring chances that we created in the first half, but we were glad that we continued to have more scoring opportunities in the second half.”
The No. 2-ranked Riverhawks were scheduled to play Oct. 21 vs. the No. 9-ranked Gladstone High Gladiators (4-1-1 TVC, 7-2-2 overall). A win by The Dalles will clinch its first league championship in more than 20 years.
The Riverhawks play at home Oct. 23 in a 6 p.m. senior night contest vs. Estacada (1-4-1 TVC, 7-2-2 overall). The Riverhawks conclude the regular season at Molalla on Oct. 28.
“I think we’ll win our last two games and remain undefeated,” said Granados. “If we just continue to stay consistent and play the way we have been, then we should be able to continue winning and help us improve our chance to have a couple of home playoff games. Anytime you have a playoff road game, it can be very difficult to win sometimes.”
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