Girls soccer led by defense
August 23, 2023 at 12:40 a.m.
The Lady Wildcats' soccer club defeated the tough defense of Rising Sun by a score of 3-1 Thursday.
Madesyn Sunderhaus led the offensive onslaught with 8 shots, 2 goals and a corner kick that led to the game-winning goal scored by dual-sported athlete Izzie Riffle who received the pass from Kenadie Powell with the assist. Sunderhaus, MaxPreps Player of the Match, currently leads the conference in goals and offensive points, according to coach Cindy Adams.
“Shoutout to Izzie who is also a varsity cheerleader and a member of the band. In those other activities, she cheers on players who are to be encouraged and lifted up. Today, it was our turn to cheer her on as she scored her first varsity goal,” said Adams.
Lillian Ralph and Mackenzie “Z” Brzezinski had the two assists to Sunderhaus.
Kylee Bolser was a significant threat with great passing and movement off the ball which resulted in five shots on goal. Other girls with good opportunities to score were Sammy Bright (3), McKenna Chinn (2), Powell (2), Ralph (1) and Annie Lucas (1), Jorja Graf (1).
Junior Shyla Beard made her season debut after recovering from an emergency surgery less than a month ago. “Expect to see good things from the quick and smart midfielder.”
JV/Swing goalkeeper Cheyenne Jenkins demonstrated her field skills as she subbed in for Bright who exited the game early in the second half with an injury to her hand. She had several excellent crosses that created exciting plays.
“We were pleased with the performance of our rookie swing players Joslyn Graf, Phiea McCollum, Annie and Lily Nichols. These girls stepped into the positions we asked them to play without hesitation and did well,” added Adams.
The defensive backline was solid and tough the entire game. Sophomore center back Anna Rotert had the assignment to shut down the center attack and she understood the assignment. Anna's 1v1 defending skills were on display the entire game, said Adams.
“Junior Audrey Weaver is as smooth as silk and so dependable to not only defend the side of the field, she is quick to get to the middle and cover when needed.
“Esther George and Mackenzie were fast and furious competently and consistently stealing the ball and turning it to gain possession by the midfield.”
Liz Wendel, varsity GK, had another solid performance racking up 9 saves.
The Wildcats had a tough physical game Monday with very low numbers due to illness and injuries. With only 3 out of 6 offensive starters, it was quickly going to be a defensive game. FC and Landmark Christian battled to a nil-nil draw.
From Adams: The back line was more than equal to the task. Stopper Rotert had another great 1v1 battle with Landmark's main striker. Outside back Weaver was rock solid, quick to the ball and very tough physically. George mirrored Weaver on the right and was unbreakable and unshakable on her side. Sweeper Brzezinski (Player of the Match) was brave and took risks that paid off and was greased lightning catching any breakaway.
“Coach Surber worked on situational defending this week at practice and you could really see the team combining for easier buildouts from the back.”
Wendel had a great night, picking up 21 saves and securing the shutout.
FC hosted New Castle Tuesday (result not available) and welcomes EIAC foe Rushville Monday.
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The Lady Wildcats' soccer club defeated the tough defense of Rising Sun by a score of 3-1 Thursday.
Madesyn Sunderhaus led the offensive onslaught with 8 shots, 2 goals and a corner kick that led to the game-winning goal scored by dual-sported athlete Izzie Riffle who received the pass from Kenadie Powell with the assist. Sunderhaus, MaxPreps Player of the Match, currently leads the conference in goals and offensive points, according to coach Cindy Adams.
“Shoutout to Izzie who is also a varsity cheerleader and a member of the band. In those other activities, she cheers on players who are to be encouraged and lifted up. Today, it was our turn to cheer her on as she scored her first varsity goal,” said Adams.
Lillian Ralph and Mackenzie “Z” Brzezinski had the two assists to Sunderhaus.
Kylee Bolser was a significant threat with great passing and movement off the ball which resulted in five shots on goal. Other girls with good opportunities to score were Sammy Bright (3), McKenna Chinn (2), Powell (2), Ralph (1) and Annie Lucas (1), Jorja Graf (1).
Junior Shyla Beard made her season debut after recovering from an emergency surgery less than a month ago. “Expect to see good things from the quick and smart midfielder.”
JV/Swing goalkeeper Cheyenne Jenkins demonstrated her field skills as she subbed in for Bright who exited the game early in the second half with an injury to her hand. She had several excellent crosses that created exciting plays.
“We were pleased with the performance of our rookie swing players Joslyn Graf, Phiea McCollum, Annie and Lily Nichols. These girls stepped into the positions we asked them to play without hesitation and did well,” added Adams.
The defensive backline was solid and tough the entire game. Sophomore center back Anna Rotert had the assignment to shut down the center attack and she understood the assignment. Anna's 1v1 defending skills were on display the entire game, said Adams.
“Junior Audrey Weaver is as smooth as silk and so dependable to not only defend the side of the field, she is quick to get to the middle and cover when needed.
“Esther George and Mackenzie were fast and furious competently and consistently stealing the ball and turning it to gain possession by the midfield.”
Liz Wendel, varsity GK, had another solid performance racking up 9 saves.
The Wildcats had a tough physical game Monday with very low numbers due to illness and injuries. With only 3 out of 6 offensive starters, it was quickly going to be a defensive game. FC and Landmark Christian battled to a nil-nil draw.
From Adams: The back line was more than equal to the task. Stopper Rotert had another great 1v1 battle with Landmark's main striker. Outside back Weaver was rock solid, quick to the ball and very tough physically. George mirrored Weaver on the right and was unbreakable and unshakable on her side. Sweeper Brzezinski (Player of the Match) was brave and took risks that paid off and was greased lightning catching any breakaway.
“Coach Surber worked on situational defending this week at practice and you could really see the team combining for easier buildouts from the back.”
Wendel had a great night, picking up 21 saves and securing the shutout.
FC hosted New Castle Tuesday (result not available) and welcomes EIAC foe Rushville Monday.