Pirates can't close against Marin Catholic

Though Drake (3-0-3) came out strong in the first half, with Rio Suendermann getting a shot on the Wildcats in the first two minutes, they couldn't seal the deal on any of the close calls and failed to control the game in the second half. 

Play was mostly in the air throughout the first half and failed to come down to earth even into the second period. The Drake team played aggressively with a number of headers and high balls, but would have benefitted more control and passing.

The Wildcats had a number of near misses of their own, including one that Drake defender Meyer Gorelick saved from what would have been a certain loss for the Pirates.

In the 24th minute, a combination of team play and passing lead to the closest miss Drake had to that point as Paul O'Sullivan's shot went just wide of the goal.

The fast and aggressive play continued as MC responded with a run up the field of their own. In the 30th minute, Suendermann nearly converted a free kick from Connor Harvard. But, it wasn't to be. And the half ended after a tumble in front of the Marin Catholic goal brought three players down.

Drake started off sloppier after the half as the Wildcats were more dominant in the second period, but neither team was able to come out on top. And the game ended 0-0.

"It could have gone either way. It was a hard fought game on both sides," said senior Ben Judkins.

The two teams won't meet again in regular conference play, though many of the players have grown up playing together in youth leagues.

Up next: Drake plays San Rafael this Wednesday at home.