In what was a challenging start to the 2024 season, Randolph lost to Chatham 7-1 on Thursday, Sept. 5.
Despite the season-opener loss, given the team’s 12-6-1 record in 2023, the Rams are still looking to go even further this year. After losing six seniors to graduation last year, the current team is learning to get back on track with the goal of making this season historic.
“We have some big changes to our lineup and new additions to our roster which will definitely help,” head coach Gina Adickes said. “We will continue to grow and get all the kinks out.”
At the start of the game, Chatham scored off a corner in the first five minutes. Randolph quickly responded in an offensive corner when sophomore Ella Astorino scored from an assist by junior Avery Gamsby. After movement of the ball, Chatham scored two more goals to finish the first quarter.
Following in the second quarter, the Rams started to adjust to Chatham’s plays; senior Jessa Altemose had 14 saves by the end of the game.
“Our teamwork was successful, as we were able to put up a fight during the second quarter,” senior co-captain Morgan Heller stated. “We were able to keep pushing, and even though we were losing, we still were looking for opportunities to play our game.”
Randolph’s defense was strong, as the team only gave up two goals in the second half. Randolph demonstrated proactive communication and perseverance, as the Rams showed Chatham that they were not giving up.
Although Randolph only put one in the net, the offense took close to 10 shots against Chatham’s goalie; the Rams utilized their passing game and demonstrated good movement of the ball throughout the field.
“I think we have to put the game behind us,” Heller stated. “Every loss is a learning opportunity, and from this point we can only get stronger.”
Next up, the Rams face West Morris Central, today, Tues, Sept. 10.