The Coupeville High School soccer team lost a defensive battle 2-0 to powerful Archbishop Thomas Murphy Tuesday, March 22, at Mickey Clark Field.

The Wildcats (2-0, 1-0) won the conference opener by slipping in two second-half goals.

Coupeville coach Paul Mendes said, “Our defense held up very well for most of the game. Isaac Wacker had a fine game in goal with numerous saves, including a penalty kick he stopped late in the match.”

Mendes said ATM “is one of the best teams in the state.” He added, “We were not intimidated and we never quit…All in all, it was an encouraging performance.”

Though the Wolves didn’t score, its midfield “had some good moments of possession,” according to Mendes, and “created real scoring opportunities.”

Coupeville (0-1-1, 0-1) hosts Cedarcrest (1-0-1, 1-0) Thursday, March 24, at 6 p.m.