The Salisbury High School girls soccer team had just the start to the 2021 season that it had hoped for. Leading returning scorer and senior Quinn Wittman got herself going, scoring five goals to pace the offense as the defense held strong, allowing just one goal in an 8-1 nonleague victory over Notre Dame of East Stroudsburg in the season-opener last Friday afternoon at Salisbury High School.

Falcon head coach Rick Babyak was pleased with what he saw out of his team so early in the season.

“After a bit of a slow start it was good to see our team come together and score some very nice goals,” said Babyak. “The offensive success led to overall team confidence. It was a fairly balanced performance and a good way to start the season.”

Wittman, who is a two-time Salisbury Press Female Athlete of the Year, continued her offensive success on the pitch and could not be stopped. Babyak is impressed with her finishing ability and techniques shooting on net. He also credited Aaliyah M’Bai, who capped off the Falcons scoring with three goals. Each player also added an assist to their totals.

“Quinn is an incredible finisher and a true team leader,” Babyak said. “She has one of the strongest shots in the Lehigh Valley. It was nice to see her break out for five goals after being limited in last year’s shortened season. Aaliyah M’Bai also really made a statement scoring three goals. It is a real asset having multiple goal scoring threats.”

The Salisbury defense was strong all game, only allowing a goal in the second half, led by goalie Hannah Kamp.

“Hannah Kamp really worked hard in the offseason,” said Babyak. “I believe she is one of the top keepers in the area. Chase Watto has an incredible work rate and is a tenacious center defender. These two did a very nice job leading our defense and inspiring our younger players to take their game to the next level.”

Kamp also had her hand in two of the eight goals, contributing two assists. Gabi Pena tallied an assist as well for Salisbury.