The Ponca City varsity soccer teams opened the 2023 season with mixed results Tuesday night.

In matches played at Po-Hi’s Sullins Stadium, the girls team lost a 4-1 decision to Enid, while in the nightcap the Wildcat boys team emerged with a 1-0 victory.

In the Lady Cats’ match, Ponca City scored first on a goal by Emma Steichen and led 1-0 at the half. Enid scored all four of its goals in the second half. Enid scored its first goal 23 minutes into the second half and the next three came in short order.

The boys match was a defensive struggle with Ponca City breaking through on a goal by Gabe Roland. Cayden Andersen was credited with an assist.

“We played with a lot of heart, tonight,” Ponca City boys Coach Ben Steichen said. “The defense was outstanding with senior Malachi Johnson leading the way on the back line and senior goalkeeper Checho Aguilar making five saves for the shut out. Rivalry games are always tough mentally and physically, but we did enough to win against Enid for the first time in six years. They are a really talented squad so it’s a quality start for us.

Both teams will travel to Choctaw on Friday and Saturday to participate in the Choctaw Cup tournament.