Kingston hosted defending 1A state champion Klahowya on Sept. 8, and lost 3-1 in their first game of the season.

Both teams started several freshmen, and three of the four goals scored in the game were by them.

Klahowya struck first late in the first half, giving the Eagles a 1-0 lead going in to half time. Roughly 10 minutes into the second half, Kingston freshman Jenny Fogg received a ball from Kaitlin Harper and shot a 30 yard rifle at Klahowya goalkepper, who was slightly off her line. The ball  dropped just under the crossbar for the tying goal.

Klahowya stepped up and one of their freshmen snuck through for two more goals to win the game 3-1.

“Last year, we lost 6-0 [to Klahowya], and this time we played with them the whole game,” said Kingston head coach Craig Smith. “We have much to improve on as it was our first game, but the girls played hard and never let down.”

Kingston had several other close chances during the game, including a shot that went just wide and one that hit the crossbar. These opportunities and the girls’ drive has kept Smith’s outlook positive.

“We have a tough opening couple of games with Klahowya and Everett, but preparing for them makes us stronger and it shows already,” Smith said. “Our goal of making the playoffs this year is reasonable, and playing good teams early develops this squad quickly.”

The Buccaneers host Everett on Sept. 12 at 12:45 at Kingston High School. The J.V. plays the same day at 11.

The North Kitsap girls’ soccer team beat South Kitsap 2-0 in their season opener. They host Chimacum on Sept. 15 at home.