JV team takes 1st place in 4A with close win over Applewood

Match time:  11/1/14  1:45pm  (2:06 start)
Opponent:  Applewood
Tournament:  Nationals, 4A Division Championship bracket
Location:  Lake Country Soccer Complex, Springfield, MO
Conditions:  Clear and COLD

HSAA JV:  2
Applewood:  1


The JV boys took to the pitch in Springfield for the final time, against an Applewood team that came out of the B pool (teams that were closer in quality to our Varsity squad).  The reason for Applewood's assignment to the B squad became quickly apparent, as they were the first opponent the HSAA JV side faced that proved a serious threat from the opening whistle, scoring the first goal within minutes on a great crossing pass and a wicked reverse-angle shot behind the Angels goalkeeper.

It took a few minutes, but the JV boys adjusted their game and brought in another gear, forcing most of the action to remain solidly in the Applewood side of the pitch.  The Angels equalized a few minutes later on a Max Perez goal, then were granted a penalty kick for a handball in the box.  Max Perez converted the shot to give HSAA a 2-1 goal lead, a score which stood at half time.

Shortly into the second half, Applewood found another gear in their game, desperately looking for an goal to even it up.  For the first time of the weekend the HSAA keeper was called upon to be the deciding factor, and Matthew Welch was up to the task.  He made one sliding save at the edge of the penalty area on one breakaway; and minutes later Applewood's best forward made a strong move around our left defensive back and was one-on-one with Matthew, who made the kick save on the shot to force the ball wide.

As is often the case, the great defensive play spurred the offense and momentum swung back to HSAA, as Applewood never had another serious threat to equalize.  Full time was blown with HSAA prevailing 2-1, capturing the 4A 1st place award for our JV team.

After the post-match handshake, the team gathered at the concession stand for the award ceremony.  Captain Sean Fletcher accepted the award plaque for the team, and "All-tournament" medals were awarded to forward Max Perez and keeper Matthew Welch.

Sean also stated that the team had voted keeper Matthew as the "Man of the Match" and your Blogger was specifically instructed to note such on this blog.  Mission accomplished.


Sportsmanship shout-out to our noble opponents:
Their entire team and their fans.  They played a good, tough match against us, and their fans were some of the nicest of the weekend.

Stats:
Total Shots:  12
Shots on Goal:  2
Saves:  4
Goals allowed:  1
Goals:
   Max Perez, (1) (1 PK)