Thursday, September 23 v. Oak Mountain Academy (8-2 win)
On a cool and sunny Fall day, the Cougars welcomed the Oak Mountain Academy Warriors to Groveway Community Park. The goal was to play aggressive and reduce the time played in preparation for the Furtah Prep rematch the next day. To that end, the Cougars started out fast. Daniel Byman scored seven goals in the first half. When he wasn’t single handedly breaking down the Warrior defense, he was fed by Gabriel Belden, Blake Lackey, and Jack Kane – all earning assists with some timely and accurate passing. The highlight of the half was spectacular bicycle kick for a goal. With his back to the goal and accepting a pass from Blake into the penalty box, Daniel flipped up the ball and shot it over his head straight into the goal! Great defensive play Alex Hogg, Charles Young, Jack Kane and Weston Kershner preserved the first half shut out. Reaching a 7-0 score shortened the first half by ten minutes and set up for only a twenty minute second half. Only playing 50 minutes helped preserve energy for tomorrow’s contest. Game Highlights: Black Lackey – 2 shots, 1 assist; Daniel Byman – 10 shots, 8 goals, 1 steal; Aidan Briggs – 5 saves.
Friday, September 24 @ Furtah Prep (10-0 loss)`
With the weather remaining perfect for soccer, expectations were high for this anticipated rematch with Furtah Prep. Again, the Cougars employed a defensive strategy. The disciplined and active play of the entire defense generated countless off-sides calls. With the addition of exceptional goalie play, the Cougars held Furtah to only three first haplf goals. Alas with no significant second half offensive threat, Furtah physical and speedy attacks weakened the Cougar defense leading to seven additional goals. Although the outcome was disappointing, there was exceptional effort by Ben Johnson, Liam Walsh, Aiden Spies, Alex Hogg and Aidan Briggs. We are still working through the process with of soccer yet to play. Game Highlights: Aidan Briggs – 8 saves.
This week we continue the AAC schedule with an away game against Mill Springs Academy Wednesday, 9/29 at 4:00 with expected return time of 6:15. The GISA state tournament will begin on Friday, 10/01/21 at Strong Rock Christian Academy – more to come.
