Coming off a rough showing in Saturday’s Hazen Jamboree, Hazen Soccer on Monday faced Interlake’s Saints in a non-league contest at The Joe, falling 3-0 in their first match of the season.

Interlake picked up an early goal in the game and scored late in the first and second half for a 3-0 victory, but coach Ken Matthews said he felt better about his team after the loss.

“I was surprised at how we played at our jamboree. We didn’t click anywhere very often,” said Coach Ken Matthews in a press release. “As a coach you hope you come out of tryouts ready to go. Tonight made me a lot more comfortable about the season.”

Matthews said his team’s improvement from Saturday was evident in the first half in spite of the score. But it was really apparent in the second half. Hazen had seven shots on goal to Interlake’s one and had Interlake on their heels from the kick off in that half.

“You’re playing a team that went to state last year and is a preseason favorite in KingCo. Last year they clobbered us 5-0; and it could have been worse. If we do what we did in the second half all year I think we’ll be okay,” said Matthews.

Senior Defender Angad Singh was Man of the Match.

Hazen hosts Newport Thursday night and plays their Seamount League opener against Evergreen Friday at Renton Stadium.