Jesuit Soccers’ Valiant Effort in Playoffs

“We showed that we could go and compete with the best teams.” – Coach DeLong

After finishing districts with a record of fifteen wins, four ties, and three losses, Jesuit’s soccer team advanced into the playoffs. In the first matchup, they faced South Grand Prairie in the bi-district round. After advancing to the Area Round, they faced tough competition against Allen, one of the strongest teams in the state. In an intensely heated and close match, the Rangers maintained an aggressive offense and controlling defense. After scoring one goal, and also allowing one from Allen, the match progressed into overtime which saw no goals. Ultimately the Rangers fell short in penalty kicks to end the game.

“I’m really happy with how we’ve played and we’re going to keep it up next year.” – Grant Gomez ’25

Jesuit v South Grand Prairie (W 1-0)

This match was a great example of Jesuit’s explosive offence. The team stayed on their front foot and consistently pressured SGP defenders. With fifteen shots and five shots on goal they overpowered and outperformed their opponent. South Grand Prairie managed a total of eight shots, with only two on goal, both of which were easily saved by Goalie Reid McMillan ’24. An impressive highlight of the match, Sophomore Cooper McGough made five shots, three of them on goal. Securing the only goal of the match was Senior Jack Bradshaw with a successful shot from a penalty kick.

“We played great and just missed out, it’s frustrating to have come so close but i’m still proud of us.” – Octavio Monjaras ’25

Jesuit v Allen (L 1-1 PKs)

The Rangers started at an early deficit after seceding a goal to Allen in the eleventh minute; however, the game remained a lockout following that goal. Jesuit maintained a good balance of offensive and defensive strength. The Rangers made seventeen shots, three of which were on goal. Most impressively, Goalkeeper Reid McMillan ’24 made eight saves during the match. Keeping up the offense was Caleb Fisher ’24 with six shots and Cooper McGough ’26 with five, including a goal in the seventieth minute to tie the match. The game progressed through two overtimes until it all came down to penalty kicks. Unfortunately, the Rangers fell short in PKs, ending their season.

“We had a good season and while i’m sad to see off our seniors, i’m really excited for next year.” – Mario Zamora ’25

The team had a great performance this year. Fortunately, multiple juniors are returning to the team next year. Prospects are high and so are the expectations.

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