Soccer rivals kick to a draw at Kiggins

Ninety minutes of soccer settled nothing between the Camas and Skyview high school boys soccer teams April 1, at Kiggins Bowl.

“I love the competition and intensity,” said Camas defender Lucas Ulmer. “It’s a lot more fun when the game is played at the speed it’s supposed to be played.”

The Papermakers and the Storm gasped in disbelief after their shots hit the post, sailed wide of the net or wound up in the hands of the opposing goalkeeper. Camas keeper Sharif Batroukh dove left and right to snare three saves. Evan Laws earned five saves for Skyview.

“It’s fun competing with friends,” Batroukh said. “We both have good forwards, good defenses and we butt heads.”

The two longtime rivals of the 4A Greater St. Helens League even played 10 minutes of overtime to try and get a goal in. If Camas and Skyview both win their next three games, they will have an opportunity to settle this battle April 25 at Doc Harris Stadium.

“A game like this shows our weaknesses, our strengths and what we need to improve on,” Ulmer said. “Next time we play Skyview, it all depends on who works harder and who wants it more. Everyone on this team wants to win. We all put our hearts out there on that field, and we take care of each other.”

The Papermakers talked about finishing stronger on their scoring opportunities. They surrendered just two goals in eight games this season. They kept six teams from putting a ball in the back of the net. The ties with Skyview and Skyline teach them they are not going to win games without scoring goals.

“We need to work harder in practice and not just go through the motions,” Batroukh said. “There’s always room for improvement. That’s what this game showed.”

Camas beat Battle Ground 5-0 Thursday, at Doc Harris Stadium. Nate Beasley finished off the first goal, with help from Sam Pizot and Cameron Eyman. Austin Cassity netted the next two goals off assists from Beasley. Eyman earned the fourth goal on a pass from Matt Palodichuk. Cassity pitched in on the final goal scored by Palodichuk.

The Papermakers (8-0) play Heritage April 15, at 4 p.m., at McKenzie Stadium, and host Evergreen April 18, at 7 p.m., at Doc Harris Stadium.