YOUTH SPORTS: Sandpoint Albion SC wins season-opener, splits series with Sounders

Sandpoint Albion SC’s 2013 and 2014 boys surprised the crowd and themselves after splitting a pair of matches against the region's elite Spokane Sounders SC this past weekend.

In the first 10 minutes of game one, the club’s season-opener, Albion’s Felix Carlson and Avery Bonner scored on beautiful far post shots from distance to seal a 2-0 win.

"Compared to only five months ago, Avery has developed an impressive shot from distance,” coach Jennings Waterhouse said. “He scored on the league's number one keeper, Trey Tortorelli. We applaud Avery's dedication and believing in Albion's skill-development program." 

In the second game against the Sounders, Albion experimented with a variety of lineups to give the boys substantial time at multiple positions. Albion conceded a couple early first-half goals and a couple early second-half goals as the Sounders took a commanding 4-0 lead. 

"We heavily emphasize giving our players dynamic game experiences and challenging situations to navigate and learn from,” coach Eric Donenfeld said. “Our staff and players accept these growth opportunities and are aware they can create some stress and mistakes and cost us wins, and we're okay with that."

Albion dominated the remaining 20 minutes of the game, creating a dozen quality scoring opportunities with two shots hitting the post. In the 55th minute, Sandpoint’s Greyson Reid skillfully slotted a shot off a corner kick to give Albion their first and only goal in the 4-1 loss.

"Based on the recent skill growth of our players, we took a leap of faith and decided to leave the Select League and enter Washington's Premier League for 2024,” coach Donenfeld said. “As a club we prioritize finding the best competition and embrace challenges. Today’s matches show that our future is bright. The boys went down 4-0 and remained composed and played exceptionally high energy ball, which resulted in multiple quality opportunities in the last 20 minutes. We are satisfied with our first games of the season." 

If interested in learning more about academy level soccer and playing opportunities, visit https://www.albionscidaho.org/programs/albion-sc-idaho-sandpoint-id