Updated Post
Some Notes on the Game:
-I wasn’t sure how the final shot tally would look, but I knew it would be a big difference. I was guessing around 20-5 in shots and that was pretty close in Memorials favor. I could not remember a shot on goal in the second half for North. A few long free kicks which can be dangerous, but Memorial really locked down the game in the second half.
-The goal with 4 seconds to go in the half by North was a gut punch and could have been a huge momentum swing. Coming out for the second half, North was loud. I am guessing full of confidence and ready for the upset. Memorial never let them get going. The shots started coming in the first few minutes and never stopped the entire half. I think around 15 shots in the second half. That’s a bunch.
-In the 2nd game of the season, the North Midfield really played well. They created a ton of counter attack opportunities and moved the ball into space consistently. Not on Tuesday. Memorial seemed aware of this and kept the potent duo of Podolak and Xiong under control all night.
-Unsung hero: Ryder Woodworth. Part of the reason Podolak and Xiong were not as dangerous was Woodworth. His tracking and midfield play helped stabilize things for the Abes. As well, I must point out that on the winning goal, Ryder had two key moments. He wins a ball in Midfield early in the possession and makes a nice over the head kick into the Memorial half. Almost instantly, North wins back the ball, but Ryder makes a great tackle in Midfield and wins the ball back. His two midfield wins allow Rosenberger the chance to make the run into the box, and Peloquin to make the pass into the middle so that Zumwalt can header it home. It never happens without the midfield play from Woodworth.
Next Game Appleton North
-Appleton North has a solid program and some success in the state tournament back in 2010, getting too the state finals. The record this year , from what I can find, was 13-4. Nice win over Arrowhead was the best win I found. A close loss to Kimberly who is ranked second in our Sectional. Neenah, ranked in the Top 10 in the state beat them as well.
-One common opponent this year is Middleton. Memorial tied them 1-1 and Middleton beat Appleton North. From the games I see and the common opponent, the #5 seeding makes sense. Memorial on paper is the slight favorite and playing at home makes for a nice advantage as well. If they both play their best, Memorial should find a way….but as they say….that’s why they play the games. Go Abes!!
Original Post
Maybe this Rivalry is real. Another hotly contested game that went to the half tied at 1. Memorial took control in the second half, controlled possession, dominated in shots all night, and found a game winner.
Lots more to add tomorrow. but I wanted to drop these couple of videos out there tonight for everyone’s viewing pleasure. A certain someone will enjoy them….starts with an M….ends with chelle….she had a really big smile on her face as the game ended. Nice! I love it when good things happen to players who work really hard, are humble and are great teammates. I have mentioned several times on the blogs this year that Lucas was due for a big goal. He had been close many times this year, but it just didn’t happen. Well, it happened tonight.
Here is a little foreshadowing of the goal later.
And then a crushing blow when North scores with 4 seconds to go in the half. Nice goal, but tough to give that one up on a set play.
But then this happened.
I will be back tomorrow for some game evaluation, updates on other games and a preview of the Regional Finals on Saturday.
Go Abes. Shock the World!