The Wareham Viking girls soccer team was trounced by the Old Rochester Regional High School Bulldogs, losing 7-1 in their opening game on Thursday afternoon. ORR did the bulk of the damage in the first half, scoring five goals. Four out of the five goals were made by Teresa Morse, and the fifth by Hannah Bouvette.

"Even though we gave up five in the first half ...I think we stepped up our game in the second," said Coach Cindy Sylvia. "The first half was baptism by fire."

Wareham's one goal in the second half was by Taylor Nelson, who Sylvia called, "One of the best athletes I've ever coached."

Nelson is a three-sport athlete, and according to Sylvia she can play any position on the soccer field. Nelson was assisted in the goal by Meghan Fitzgerald.

Other standouts included Wareham goalie Felicia Thomas, who had 14 saves in her first varsity game.

Wareham was dealt a serious blow a week before the season started when three-time South Coast Conference All Star (and the team's lead scorer during her sophomore year) Briana King was sidelined with a broken leg. King will likely sit out the entire season.

Wareham also lost key players Jessica Gadbois, Shanell Terry, and Kelley Paling to graduation in 2010.

Despite the loss of King, Sylvia was confident that players like Nelson and Thomas will step in and help keep Wareham competitive this season.

"If we stay healthy, it's a realistic goal to make the tournament," Sylvia said.
Some other players expected to make an impact this season are midfielders Tara DiGiantomaso, and Madison Caterius.

"Our goals for the season are to play tough every minute, make the tournament, and stay healthy," said Sylvia.