South Whidbey High School soccer coach Emerson Robbins is taking the hit for the Falcons’ 2-1 loss in overtime to visiting King’s Friday, March 23.

“I wasn’t aware of the rule regarding tie games in our conference,” Robbins said. “It seems that there is only extra time if both teams are either 1A or 2A teams, but not if a 1A team is playing a 2A team. I believe that King’s coach and team were aware of this rule and ready to go in the extra period, whereas our guys thought the game was over at the end of regulation and they were not mentally prepared for the extra time.

“That’s totally on me, not the guys.”

Robbins also noted his team ran out of subs after several starters had to exit because of injuries or cramps.

Regardless, it was “a very close game; both sides played hard and well,” according to Robbins.

Graham Colar got South Whidbey on the board first, scoring in the 25th minute.

King’s (2-0, 4-0-1) quickly countered when Max Kim tied the match three minutes later.

The contest stayed 1-1 until Christian Engmann scored the winner for the Knights in overtime.

“I was extremely proud of our guys effort, as most of them had to play the entire 80 minutes without any subs or rest,” Robbins said. “We always talk about success as giving 100 percent, leaving it all out on the pitch.

“I hope they all understand that, as by that definition, our guys played a very successful game and I’m very proud of them.”

South Whidbey (0-2, 1-2-1) plays at Cedar Park Christian-Bothell (1-0, 3-1) at 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 27.

Graham Colar celebrates his goal against King’s Friday. (Photo by Jim Waller/Whidbey News Group)

Michael Lux battles a King’s player for possession. (Photo by Jim Waller/Whidbey News Group)

Thomas Simms looks to advance the ball for South Whidbey. (Photo by Jim Waller/Whidbey News Group)

Lake Smith heads the ball out of trouble for the Falcons. (Photo by Jim Waller/Whidbey News Group)