The Ransom Everglades Raiders varsity boys’ soccer team lead by five seniors closed out the last game of the season in style as they shut out the Saint Andrew’s Scots 5-0 on Saturday afternoon. The Raiders were led by Thomas Schein ‘21, who scored two goals, and Danny Mendoza ‘21, who added one. These two seniors led the team across all statistical categories throughout a fast-paced, action-packed game. 

“Thomas scored a beautiful goal early in the game and had a wonderful game, which was fitting for senior day,” co-captain Nicolas Stone-Perez ‘21 said. “He did an incredible job pressing the other team, moving off the ball, creating space, and capitalizing on chances. He has been improving significantly all year and seems that he is peaking at the right time of the year.” 

The midfield’s ability to set up the wings to create chances to score early on with crosses into the box gave RE the chance to score several goals. The seniors’ strong chemistry opened the scoring when Schein finished a pass from Mendoza in the middle of the goalie box five minutes into the game.  

“We bought the energy right from the start, something we had been lacking from the start of the season, and it really made a huge difference as we took a two-goal lead into the half,” Mendoza, co-captain, said. “I’m feeling really excited for what’s to come, as right now we are the number one seed in the district.” 

Juan Riviera ‘22 had a quick burst to the goal until a defender kicked a poor clearance leading to a Raider corner kick, with Mendoza taking the corner kick shot that hit off a defender’s foot right into the goal to go into the half. Ransom Everglades would hold the Scots to zero goals and take a 2-0 lead over Saint Andrew’s at the half.  

“The last few games, we’ve really hit our stride, and everything we had been working towards all season finally clicked,” Schein said. “Every senior was able to start and played a huge part in the win. This game meant a lot in terms of seeding, and none of the seniors wanted to let the team down.” 

Schein continued with his commanding performance by scoring his second goal of the game off across to the top of the goalie box from Nico Sosa ‘23. RE scored again after Daniel Stancioff ‘23 drew a penalty in the goalie box and Mendoza capitalized on the shot.  

The Raiders would outmatch their opponents across all aspects of the game, starting with the defense lockdown play and the offense finishing on most of its chances. And they did not hesitate to keep pushing: a quick attack down the wing by Josh Hoppenstein ‘22 placed a pass right in front of two defenders, which resulted in a Kobe Lopez ‘23 goal. 

“Today was a bittersweet day as it is the last year playing RE soccer with the other four seniors,” Stone said. “I enjoy every moment I spend on and off the field with Gabriel, Walker, Thomas, and Danny, and I am looking forward to these massive games coming up for us. It was also a day to be thankful for all the love and support our families have given throughout our careers on the Ransom soccer team.”  

Now 9-1-5 for the season, the Raiders prepare to host a District Semi-Final on February 4th.