Saturday, January 30th was the San Antonio Slayers first Premier Arena Soccer League (PASL) game of 2021. The Slayers picked up right where they left off last season - winning. Their opponent was Dallas NXT Image. Scoring started early in the first period when the Dallas goalkeeper came sliding out of the penalty area to challenge Becca Mays in a one-on-one, but getting all player instead of the ball. The result was a shootout that Mays easily converted. Mays, former Metro State and New England Mutiny player, scored two goals on the evening. Mays shared about the game, “It was a good game and I think we saw some good things from the team even with it being the first match of the season. Should be a fun season to watch and I’m looking forward to seeing the team continue to grow together.”

The game was fast paced and competitive. Slayers continued to add goals, but had to work for each one. The difference was Raeann Garcia in goal for the Slayers. Garcia made diving saves on challenging upper 90 shots. She allowed only one goal all game. A defensive lapse led to Garcia coming out to challenge the attacker. She blocked the shot, but was not able to recover before the Dallas attacker was able to slide the rebound in. Garcia could be the game’s MVP as she fended off the Dallas offense.

The Slayers came away with a well fought victory of 5-1. Multiple players had goals. Team owner Marilyn Elder expressed her feelings on the upcoming season, “I’m grateful to be back in the PASL for our second season. The Slayers are ready to work and ready to win. I’m proud to have so many returning players from last season and I’m excited to see what the new players will bring to our winning culture. The new Head Coach, RC Pate, will definitely lead this team to multiple victories.”

- Danielle Gawronski