The boys varsity ultimate team lost their first official game of the season against the Somerville Highlanders 11-5 on Wednesday, April 9, at Conway Park.

The game got off to a challenging start for the Warriors, who lost three points in the first few minutes of play. However, the Warriors kept up the pressure and scored their first point soon after.

After taking possession of the disc, the Highlanders quickly gained ground with rapid passes up the field. The Warriors soon regained control, scoring another point with a series of precise and strategic passes, reducing the Highlanders’ lead to 3-2.

For several minutes, both teams repeatedly intercepted the disc and stopped any progress. The Warriors then made an impressive play, crossing much of the field. However, the disc went out of bounds before the Warriors could receive a point. Eventually, the Highlanders scored and extended their lead to 4-2.

The Warriors attempted several short passes in an effort to score. The Highlanders intercepted a throw, giving them the opportunity to gain another point which increased their lead to 5-2.

The Warriors made several bold attempts at long passes, some of which nearly made it to the end zone. However, they did not score, and the Highlanders slowly pushed their way to another point and a 6-2 lead.

After a long huddle, the Warriors mounted a comeback. Using coordination and speed, and taking advantage of the Highlanders dropping the disc, the Warriors scored two more points in rapid succession, narrowing the Highlanders’ lead to 6-4.

Although the Warriors continued to play skillfully, intercepting a throw from the Highlanders and avoiding an interception, they did not continue their streak, and the Highlanders pushed the score to 8-4 before half time.

As the break came to an end and play resumed, both teams showed intense resolve. Skilled defense and offense on both sides prevented either team from scoring for a long stretch. After several minutes of back and forth play, the Highlanders were able to score a ninth point. Warrior team member Noah Krewinghaus also had to leave due to a potential injury.

With only 16 minutes remaining, a Warriors victory appeared unlikely. Unwilling to give up, the team made several huck passes, hoping to cover ground quickly. They scored one more point, but the Highlanders scored as well. The game eventually ended on time, with a final score of 11-5.

Head coach Michael Downing said the Warriors played more competitively against the Highlanders than they had last season. He said that the team is still developing in some areas, including their cutting on offense and their defensive positioning. In other respects, he felt the team had performed well. For example, he said he was pleased with their deep passes and impressive downfield receptions.

“There were good things. And there were definitely things to work on. But it’s a good starting point,” Downing said.

According to junior and captain Julian Ricco, the team has many players who are new to ultimate frisbee and still building their skills. He said that the Warriors played competitively for most of the game, and that their mistakes would provide the framework for future improvement.

“We’re just going to get back to practice tomorrow with more things to work on. It’s good experience; we’re getting better,” Ricco said.