The Giants entered the Marin County Athletic League (MCAL) semifinals seeking revenge against the Terra Linda Trojans, who served them with their first and only league loss earlier in the season. Amidst a 1-1 overtime battle, senior outside backer Finn Nelson pushed the ball forward and sent a cross that was deflected by the opposing defense, ending up right in front of senior captain Huge “Ike” Gebhard. After one touch, he half-volleyed the ball into the bottom corner of the goal, sending Redwood to the MCAL championship.
Throughout the first half of the match, tensions were high as the Giants’ stagnant offense kept Terra Linda on their toes. Suddenly, in the 70th minute, a pass from senior Ben Sherry snuck by the Trojans’ center back, giving senior Sam Gersch his second shot of the match. After his first shot ricocheted off the crossbar, he capitalized on his next opportunity, making Terra Linda pay for their mistakes as Redwood took the lead 1-0.
As the Trojans’ attacks continuously came up short throughout the match, their offense seemed to benefit from the anxiety boost of their deficit. They gained a sense of urgency and dominance, which led them to three shots on goal, scoring one, simultaneously countering Redwood’s efforts. Terra Linda senior Cole Greene scored for the Trojans, as he had in the last meeting between these two teams, tying the score at 1-1.
The last six minutes of the match were a scramble for Redwood, trying to reclaim the lead. The game went into overtime, and Redwood gained early possession. Gebhard’s goal was ensued by a storm of Giants running on the field and hugging him. They will face off against Archie Williams in the championship this Saturday at 6:30 p.m.