“We’re figuring things out and [the Rebels] certainly weren’t intimidated,” Pace said.
Dropping back five defenders, Flintridge Prep’s backline — keyed by the likes of Kristen McAleenan, Connell Studenmund and Kate Lyon — was run ragged by a relentless Tologs onslaught.
“It was ugly, but we competed,” Chavez said.
In contrast, Sacred Heart goalie Catherine Yonai notched the shutout without having to make a save or facing a shot behind the defense of Harrigin, Sinead Fleming and Natalie Zeeni.
“Backline played well,” Harragin said. “As a team, we need to play better [defense]. Our transition isn’t as good as it should be.”
But, for both teams, the onus is on improvement over time.
Chavez notes that his team must work on defending set pieces and connecting better up top.
For the Tologs, it could be as easy as time allowing talent to mesh.
“As time goes on, we’ll feel each other out and the chemistry will come,” Harragin said.
Pace is hopeful it’ll come right around the end of the calendar year.
“I think by the time the floats hit Colorado [Blvd.], we’ll be a pretty good team,” he said.
GRANT GORDON is the sports editor. He can be reached at (818) 637-3225 or grant.gordon@latimes.com.
