The South Whidbey High School soccer team lost more than its non-league match to visiting University Prep Thursday, Sept. 20.

Four Falcons starters — Nicole Helseth, Karyna Hezel, Kelly Murnane and Ashton Helseth — left the game with injuries as the Pumas pulled out the 2-1 win.

South Whidbey coach Terry Swanson said Hezel and Murnane are likely to return for the next match when the Falcons (1-1, 3-3) go to Coupeville (1-2, 1-4-1) for a 6 p.m. contest Tuesday, Sept. 25.

Juliana Larson scored from 25 yards to give South Whidbey an early 1-0 lead against University Prep.

The injuries began to mount and the Pumas scored twice in the second half to secure the victory.

Freshman Molly Cobbs took over for the injured Nicole Helseth in goal and recorded 10 saves, including several difficult chances, according to Swanson.

“Our team played hard,” Swanson said. “I was very proud of our players as we were still pressing for a goal late in the game.

“Our senior and junior starters are providing strong leadership for our five freshmen players, who all played almost the entire game. This competitive game will benefit us greatly to prepare us for our conference games and drive to make the playoffs.”