The young Scorpions played tough defensively but their cross-valley and divisional rival handed them their second loss of the season.

The Sedona Red Rock High School boys soccer team [2-2] lost at home to the Mingus Union Marauders [3-1], 4-2, on a cold evening Thursday, Dec. 13.

Both teams capitalized on each other’s small mistakes, and players on both sides of the field demonstrated skill and talent for the game.

“There is a solid group that gave 100 percent,” said Cindy Hauserman, the Scorpions’ head coach. “Once in a while, we have these brilliant flashes of creativity in front of the goal. When they pass and change the point of attack, everybody sees it. The whole crowd gets excited because they see creative, good ball. Clearly we need to work on finishing, but I am pleased with the development of plays that are happening.”

The ball was in Scorpions territory for the first part of the game. Seven minutes in, Cristian Escobar of Mingus scored a goal with the assist made by Omar Carrillo.

Scorpions freshman Francisco Hernandez played great defense after the goal, kicking the ball out of the box in front of the Sedona goal. Mingus’ Rueben Contreras attempted a shot, but Scorpions goalkeeper Wade Adams got the save.

At the 24-minute mark, the Scorpions got the ball into Marauders territory. Scorpions sophomore Rene Diaz made a strong drive to the goal, but the Marauders’ Juan Ochoa stopped it. Scorpions sophomore Jose Aviles had a shot attempt, but the Marauders defense blocked it. Sedona then had a series of corner kicks but the ball didn’t go in. The Marauders then got the ball back into Scorpions territory. The Marauders’ Jahir Jacobo attempted a shot but Aviles blocked it and got it back to mid-field.

As Scorpions captain Ryan Ramirez drove down the field with the ball…

For the full story, please see the Wednesday, Dec. 19, issue of the Sedona Red Rock News.