Jefferson City's soccer team is certainly on the rise, validated by its No. 9 ranking in Class 3. It's just not quite there with the state's elite squads.
The Jays learned that in their opening game of the Art Firley Shootout on Friday afternoon, falling 3-0 to top-ranked Chaminade at the 179 Soccer Park.
"Chaminade's just good," Jays coach Eddie Horn said. "They're well-coached. I think they were a little disappointed with their performance in the first half and they came out with something to prove in the second half."
The first half was even for the most part, as both teams recorded four shots apiece, including two on goal. The main difference was the only one that counts, as the Red Devils held a 1-0 advantage at halftime.