Highland too much for VHS in soccer match

TOMÉ — Highland (14-5, 6-1) defeated Valencia 7-2 Tuesday in boys’ soccer, the first game between the two sides since an Oct. 5 scuffle that led to a “First Strike” from the New Mexico Activities Association for each program and their fan bases.

In the rematch, Highland’s talented forwards took advantage of a strong wind blowing toward the Valencia (6-9-2, 2-4) goal in the first half, launching several long strikes to take a 5-1 lead.

“We weren’t able to deal with the wind and the power these guys have,” said VHS coach Eric Guiterrez of the first half, which also featured rain.

VHS played even with the Hornets in the second half, in what was a clean, hard-fought game. Jovanny Maldonado and Kyle Mankins scored for the Jaguars.

“Overall, I’m proud of these boys,” the coach said. “They did very well. They stand up to tall (good) teams and don’t give up.”

VHS may need to finish the regular season strong to make the 4A state playoffs when brackets are announced Saturday. Valencia, boys and girls, plays Thursday at Belen and Saturday at Grants.

In the girls’ game Tuesday, Valencia (6-9, 3-3) scored in the final few minutes to beat Highland 2-1.

Also Tuesday, Belen girls (8-10, 5-2) defeated Grants 5-2, while the BHS boys (2-5, 3-16) downed the Pirates 5-1.