Saturday’s match against Buffalo was a new endeavor for the Powell High School girls’ soccer team.

It marked the beginning of Kaitlin Loeffen’s tenure as head coach, the first PHS girls’ soccer match in almost two years and the first varsity match for all but three players. The Panthers were unable to come out on top in the landmark match, falling 6-1. 

Though Buffalo ran away with the win, Loeffen said she saw improvement from her girls over the course of the contest. 

“There was a lot of growth throughout the game,” Loeffen said. “There is always a learning curve during the first game as we see how our girls match up against another competitive team.”

Entering the year, Loeffen stressed increasing the number of shots on goal as a prime objective. The Panthers weren’t able to quite reach that goal, having only a few offensive opportunities in the match.

“We will continue to emphasize the need to take quick shots, rather than multiple touches and jeopardizing turning the ball over,” Loeffen said.

Powell’s lone score came from freshman Emma Johnson. Johnson’s communication “was key in the middle while her ball control and length contributed to our only goal,” the coach said.

“We are more than excited to see her growth.”

Mattie Larsen’s performance at goalkeeper also impressed the coach. Though Loeffen admitted that six goals allowed isn’t ideal, she believes Larsen limited what could’ve been a more lopsided affair.

“I found her ready to play mentally and physically and I am hoping to shape up the defensive line to give her more support,” Loeffen said. “She ultimately saved us from a total blowout. She broke down multiple one-on-one scoring opportunities for them.”

Going forward, Loeffen’s primary focus will be on the mental side of the game, rather than physical. In addition to mentally preparing her squad, the coach wants to see better play on the defensive end.

Next on the schedule is a road match against Cody this (Tuesday) afternoon. The contest will kick off at 3 p.m.

Against Powell’s cross-county rival, Loeffen hopes to see a more polished effort, despite only three days between matches.

“With such a quick turnaround we will focus on ball control, quick shots, and defensive containment,” Loeffen said. 

Buffalo 6, Powell 1

Goals — Emma Johnson 1