FORT WASHINGTON -- For the second straight year, Germantown Academy's boys soccer team opened Inter-Ac League play against Episcopal Academy. While the 2021 version of the Patriots went into their contest against the Churchmen with an unblemished record, the 2022 Patriots entered the contest as reigning league champions at 5-1 overall. 

Each team had one goal to their name at the break, but it was Episcopal that broke through in the second half to secure the result. For Head Coach Kurt Wetzel, the result was too similar to the 1-0 loss that the Patriots suffered to the Churchmen at the beginning of league play last season. 

"This -- like last year when Episcopal beat us 1-0 -- is a look-at-the-scoreboard game," Wetzel said. "At the end of the day, the scoreboard tells the story. We knew what was coming and hopefully we can use this as a steppingstone." 

GA found themselves down 12 minutes into the game when a bouncing Episcopal Academy free kick caused some trouble in the box and the ball found the back of the net. However, the Patriots had a response just 10 minutes later. Eli Torrey '23 played a through ball to Jake Kafrissen '23, who curled a shot around the EA keeper into the side panel of the goal. Aiden Trabosh '24 had a chance to put the Patriots ahead with 10 minutes before the half, only for his shot to be sent back by the post. 

Each team had chances in the second half, but both goalkeepers handled the pressure with ease. With just under 15 minutes to play, Episcopal forced a turnover in the midfield and was able to score on the counterattack, putting them ahead for the second time on the day. The Patriots had a few chances as time ticked down but were denied by the Churchmen.

"Their goalkeeper had a phenomenal game, he played very well," Wetzel said. "The shots that we really put him under, he made good saves on. I have nothing but praise for that team. We're going to see nine more games of that. We have to take it up a notch, we have to play quicker, and we have to play smarter."

It is familiar territory for the Patriots, who started 0-2 in league play before going on a run and winning the title. Wetzel said that while there is something to be said about the ability to get hot and reel off wins, he hopes that the team can learn from the game.

Germantown Academy falls to 5-2 overall and 0-1 in Inter-Ac play. They return to action on Oct. 7 when they travel to Springside Chestnut Hill Academy.