By Roselyn B. Monroyo
Variety News Staff

MARK McDonald will be a marked man when the NMI Men’s National Football Team plays on Guam in the second game of the preliminary qualifying tournament for the East Asia Football Federation Championships at Harmon field this Sunday.
McDonald scored both goals in the NMI’s 2-3 loss to Guam last Sunday.
“Scoring the first goal in NMI soccer history is something I will definitely keep,” McDonald said.
“It was my first time to play organized soccer since 10th grade and it was exciting. The adrenalin was there and you can’t help but give your best,” the MHS Physical Education teacher said.
He played soccer in elementary school until the 10th grade in California. On Saipan he plays volleyball and rocball. McDonald is also one of the coaches of the MHS boys’ basketball team.
“When I scored the first goal, it felt great,” said McDonald, who was seen lying on the ground for a few seconds savoring the moment.
McDonald scored his first goal in the 65th minute on a pass from Dale Roberts. Using his height advantage, McDonald jumped a few inches and connected on a header against two much shorter Guam players. In the 75th minute, he made a second goal, again over two Guam defenders.
“It so happened that I was in the right place at the right time. My goal was not to score, but to defend well,” said McDonald, who is one of the NMI’s midfielders.
McDonald was carried off the field last Sunday with a few second left before the match ended. But he assuredNMI supporters, he is okay.
“It was only fatigue. I lost a lot of fluid. But there’s nothing serious. I am ready for the next game,” McDonald said.
The MHS teacher knows Guam defenders will be watching him this Sunday and he is happy to be the focus of the host’s defense.
“If they watch me a lot, this will open scoring opportunities for my teammates,” he said.