Lightning wasn’t the only thing that struck during the home South Whidbey High School soccer match with Port Townsend; the Falcons’ offense hit the back of the net four times in the non-conference win over the Redhawks Thursday, Sept. 12.

The contest was shortened to 70 minutes because of weather delays and Port Townsend’s need to fit into the ferry schedule.

The Falcons controlled the match throughout, according to coach Terry Swanson. The first half was slow-paced, but South Whidbey “had a lot of energy in the second half and adjusted to the style of play of Port Townsend,” he added.

Freshman Simone White got the scoring started with a goal from the left wing, then Ashley Ricketts struck twice from outside the 18, thanks to an assist from Alison Papritz on the first.

Papritz wrapped up the scoring on a through pass from freshman midfielder Elizabeth Haines.

The Falcons also recorded a strong defensive game, limiting Port Townsend to only two shots on goal.

South Whidbey’s offensive effort could have been more fruitful, according to Swanson.

“We need to improve on our finishing as there were a number of open shots that sailed over the net,” Swanson said. “It is early in the season and our players are leaning back and not getting their knee over the ball on the strike. We will continue to work on finishing to ensure more of our balls are on frame.”

The Falcons (2-0) begin North Sound Conference play when Cedar Park Christian (1-1) visits at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 17.