Green Monarchs score decisive win over rivals

SANDPOINT — They say history tends to repeat itself and this was demonstrated during last Friday’s Exhibition Night at War Memorial Field.

In the main event, the Green Monarchs took to the field in front of an enthusiastic crowd full of Sandpoint soccer faithful and for the second weekend in a row, the Green Monarchs downed the Rapids Premier from the Flathead Valley area in Montana, winning 4-1 in commanding fashion.

After some furious, adrenaline-fueled opening minutes where both teams had some near misses and quality saves, Kyle Lance broke the ice and laced a low topspin ace into the left corner for a 1–0 Monarchs lead.

The Monarchs defensive back line again provided the game-winning goal, when Zac Jones strategically slotted a loose ball off a corner kick into the left corner.

Evan McNeley then tallied the Monarchs third goal. The Rapids were able to tally a single goal late in the second half. In response, McNeley then laced a low, 30-yard left-footer which sent the keeper right, while the ball curved sharply back left, finding the left corner.

The latest victory helps reestablish the Monarchs’ dominant tradition and the Sandpoint soccer dynasty. Two notable roster editions performed well in their debut with the Monarchs, as Sandpoint High School grads and recent state champs Anthony Fox and Raleigh Hanson allowed the Monarchs to show continuous tenacity and speed.

In the Exhibition night’s opening game, Sandpoint’s mens Master team, the Grey Monarchs, fell 4 to 1 to the quality Spokane OB (Old Boys). In the second game, the SHS Women’s Alumni were defeated by the Rapids Women Premier.