By James Sablan
james@mvariety.com
Variety News Staff
FRANCISCO M. Sablan Middle School and Tanapag Middle School each secured victories in the girls’ middle school division of the PSS-NMIFA Interscholastic Soccer League SY25-26, edging their respective opponents in Thursday’s matches at the NMI Soccer Training Center in Koblerville.
FMS picked up its second win of the season after outlasting Saipan Community School, 3-2.
The action intensified in the second half when SCS drew first blood in the 33rd minute courtesy of Nadine Van Dam. FMS responded six minutes later with a goal from Julianne Mettao to level the match, but SCS quickly regained the lead through Scarlett Burrell.
However, FMS surged late, capitalizing on sustained pressure. Aria Basa delivered the equalizer in the 43rd minute before Baylyn Mansfield struck just two minutes later to complete the comeback, 3-2.
Despite having time to respond, SCS was unable to generate additional scoring chances and had to settle for the loss.
Win column
Tanapag Middle School also joined the win column with a 3-1 victory over Saipan International School.
SIS struck early, scoring within the first minute through Neveah Arriola — their lone goal of the match. TMS eventually found its rhythm in the 23rd minute, with Haley Roberts netting the equalizer just before halftime.
The momentum carried into the second half, as Rhiana Macalinao scored in the 28th minute, followed by Aaliyah Fatialofa sealing the win in the 44th to make it 3-1.
James Sablan has been a sports reporter for Variety since 2013. He was a liberal arts student of Northern Marianas College and covers all local sports
