EAST PEORIA – The Mendota Trojans had a tough task in their opening game of the Peoria (Christian) Class 1A Sectional Soccer Tournament on Oct. 22 at East Peoria. They were going up against last year’s state champion, Quincy Notre Dame.

While Quincy Notre Dame graduated their top three players from last year, the Raiders were still a formidable foe and they proved that against the Trojans in a 7-2 win to remain alive in post-season play.

Mendota closed out the season with a sparkling 18-5-1 record.

“The Trojans played their hearts out until the very last whistle,” said Mendota coach Nick Myers. “I could not be more proud of this team. I thank the seven seniors on an outstanding four-year career. Their hard work, dedication and leadership never went unnoticed.

“We have a lot of things to look forward to going forward. I cannot wait to start next season and work our way back to the sectional.”

Quincy Notre Dame drove home a pair of goals in the first 12 minutes of action and added another one before the break to take a 3-0 halftime lead.

The Raiders scored the first three goals of the second half before Mendota got on the board with goals by Ivan Figueroa and Jose Ruiz. Figueroa assisted on the Ruiz goal.

In the first semifinal game, Earlville edged Roanoke-Benson, 2-1.

Quincy Notre Dame went on to claim the sectional championship after shutting out Earlville, 5-0, on Oct. 25.