Varsity Soccer |

GAME RECAP

The opening game of the 5th Annual “Pretzel Classic” saw us take on the hosts from Freeport.  Early on our guys realized that we would be able to have a significant edge in possession, however the biggest effect was a little bit of overconfidence.  While we were the team knocking the ball around, we couldn’t seem to turn that possession into too many quality chances.  At the end of the first half, we had a 6-1 shot advantage, but few of our chances were of the highest quality.

At halftime, we discussed how we could better solve their high line and offsides trap, and we did much better in the second half.  Still, Freeport was stingy and kept making plays.  It wasn’t until the 64th minute that we finally broke through.  Michael Blanke carried the ball on a speedy run into the Pretzels box, where he was tripped from behind.  Klaus Pallan stepped up and converted the PK to give us the lead.  During the next 4 minutes, we picked up our effort and knocked in two more goals.  Caleb Orr headed home a terrific cross from Zach Carbonara doubling our lead.  The Enrico Ruffolo took advantage of the aggressive Pretzel goalkeeper, who had wandered far out of his area in order to make a play to protect his goal.  Unfortunately, the ricochet found it’s way to the ready foot of Ruffolo, who calmy placed the ball into an empty net from at least 30 yards out.

It was great to see Brett Sprengel and Charlie Frank each play the entire game tonight.  And each of them stepped up on several occasions to make important plays for our side.  Additionally, a few others were also able to play some greater minutes than has been normal.  Hopefully there will be more of that tomorrow versus Antioch and McHenry.

SCORING SUMMARY

Pallan, Klaus – PK  (Michael Blanke) — 62th minute
Orr, Caleb  (Zach Carbonara)  — 64th minute
Ruffolo, Enrico (UA) — 67th minute