Varsity Soccer – Week of September 5, 2023
Tuesday, September 05 @ Cumberland Academy (7-1 win)
The Cougar’s first away contest of the season took place 20 minutes south in Sandy Springs against another AAC competitor Cumberland Academy Rams. The previous match saw the Cougars with a limited bench trying to compete against the full squad fielded by Covenant Christian Academy resulting in a 1-6 loss. The tables were turned on this day. It was the Cougars with a larger bench competing against a more limited Ram squad. It was obvious from the start that TCS had the advantage in both skill and athleticism. The Cougars scored early when Weston Kershner scored his second goal of the season, and Hayden Crosbie added another goal (the first of his varsity career) off an assist by Alex Evans. Despite the Cougars’ six shots on goal, the lead was only 2 – nil at half. The second half started with the Rams displaying renewed energy converting a “fast break” scoring opportunity aided by an off side no call. Cumberland first goal created an uncomfortable 1-2 Cougars lead . The Cougars continued to wear down the Ram defense and then exploded for five goals. Charlie Kish struck for two – his first and second career goals. Alex Evans forced one into the goal – his first career goal. Jackson Barnes stole one from Weston in the box punching it into goal – his first career goal. Finally, Hayden added his second varsity career goal, and Weston picked up an assist. A collaborative defensive effort was turned in by Jackson Barnes, Wilson Crosbie, Paige Grooms, Brooke Henderson, Andrew Little, Callie Smith, Craig Spearman and Charles Young allowing only four scoring opportunities during the match with goal keeper Jack Kane making 3 saves.
Thursday, September 7 v. Tapestry Charter (0-6 loss)
The Tapestry fielded a deep skilled team again this year. Despite the Cougars concerted effort on defense, the Titans were able to manage three goals in the first half. To start the second half, the Cougar defense was able to hold off the Tapestry onslaught for ten minutes before allowing quick back to back goals during a short two minute period. The Titan lead expanded to five. The Cougar defense stiffened for the final twenty-four minutes of the contest allowing a sixth and final goal as final whistle sounded. Jack Kane turned in another monstrous effort with ten saves, frustrating the Titan offense. Despite the score, some improvement was observed in the midfield. With only one practice before the next match, there will have to be renewed focus to continue forward.
This week the Cougars have two home games – Bible Baptist (GAPPS) on Tuesday 09/12 at 3:15 with expected return time of 5:40 and another AAC match against Atlanta Area School for the Deaf on Thursday 09/14 at 3:15 with an expected return time of 5:40 (athletes will call/text if it is substantially earlier for either game).
