After a 3-0 start the Salem High boys had their biggest test of the early season when the traveled to Blacksburg to take on the Bruins Tuesday. Salem has struggled against the traditionally powerful Blacksburg team and that was the case this week as the Bruins shut out Salem, 7-0, for the Spartans first loss of the season.
“They have a really strong team with a lot of seniors, but obviously we didn’t play our best game,” said Salem coach Dave Atkins.
The Spartans won their home opener against Cave Spring last Thursday, 2-0. Joseph Serrano scored the first goal on an assist by Anthony Rugama. At the start of the second half Rugama scored 57 seconds after kickoff with Kendry Uzaga getting the assist. Lin Daniel had four saves in the net.
The Spartans were in Vinton Friday for a non-district game against William Byrd and shut out the Terriers, 7-0. Elijah Clark had three goals and an assist, Rugama had a goal and three assists, Serano, Anthony Munoz and Jacob Daniel all had goals and everyone suited up got in the game. Daniel, Robert Herndon and Rick Rawlins had a combined four saves for the shutout.
Byrd was scheduled to return the trip to Salem on Wednesday of this week. The Spartans are at Hidden Valley Friday for a 7 pm game on Bruce Mahan Field. Next Tuesday, April 14, Christiansburg comes here.
