Boys’ soccer: SOCES’ overly aggressive style was costly

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I don’t think SOCES was caught up in the moment; after all, they were the defending Small Schools Division champion. Even though they were seeded 12th in this year’s City tournament, the Knights knew how to win.

But it was obviously apparent that SOCES was going to play on top of the line of decency and sportsmanship in Friday’s title match against Elizabeth Learning Center. And if they crossed the line occasionally, well, stuff happens.

There were seven yellow cards issued by the referee, and I believe four or five went to SOCES. The Knights also gave up two penalty kicks; both were converted by Bulldogs sophomore forward Luis Suarez and were the difference in Elizabeth’s 4-3 victory.

I don’t know if SOCES will see anything else about Friday’s game except a loss. But sometimes it’s not just if you win or lose, it’s how you play the game.

-- Mike Terry