She’s back.

After missing several games because of an injury, South Whidbey’s top scorer Alison Papritz returned Tuesday, Sept. 25, and made an immediate impact.

The junior scored both goals to the lead the Falcon soccer team to a 2-0 win over visiting Coupeville.

While Papritz provided the scoring — both goals were in the first half, the Falcon defense continued to shine.

South Whidbey has allowed only six goals in seven matches and recorded three shutouts.

Freshman keeper Molly Cobbs recorded Tuesday’s shutout in her first start in place of injured Nicole Helseth, and senior Maddy Drye provided the leadership, according to coach Terry Swanson, for the young defense that includes two other freshmen.

On offense, the “team is starting to use entire field and there were several switches that resulted in scoring opportunities by our outside attacking midfielders, Makenna Wicher, Mallory Drye, Karyna Hezel and Samantha Ollis,” Swanson said.

He also praised the play of fullbacks Lila McCleary, Karyna Hezel and Mallory Drye and midfielders Kelly Murnane, Juliana Larson and Kailey Ricketts, who provided scoring opportunities and controlled the center of the field.

In addition to Helseth, the Falcons played without Ashton Helseth, Ashley Ricketts and Lily Farnham.

“We hope to have (them) back before our next home conference game,” Swanson said.

The Falcons (2-1, 3-4) play at first-place King’s (4-0, 6-1) at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 27.

Julian Larson races to the ball in the Falcons’ win Tuesday. (Photo by Jim Waller/Whidbey News-Times)

Kelly Mernane looks to an open teammate. (Photo by Jim Waller/Whidbey News-Times)

Samantha Ollis advances the ball for the Falcons. (Photo by Jim Waller/Whidbey News-Times)