Tall Order

Tonight the Aces traveled to Conestoga to face the #1 ranked team in the State, the #2 ranked team in the nation, and the 3-time Central League Champion. And, they would have to do it without 2 key players who are out with injuries; seniors David Novacich & Erez Potok-Holmes. But LM would not go quietly.

Just 6 minutes in, sophomore Tim O'Hare gave LM an early lead by bending a corner kick into the goal. The Pioneers's passing game was very sharp, and they were controlling time of possession and generating more scoring opportunities. Midway thru the 1st half Aces' senior goalkeeper Sabastian Jenkins had to make a great save off a long throw-in to keep their slim lead. With 18 minutes left 'Stoga put a nice ball into the box, but a Pioneer player beat Jenkins to the ball and headed it into the open net, 1-1 at the half.

In the 2nd half it was still back & forth, with Conestoga getting more chances. Most of which came from free kicks, corner kicks, and their extremely long thrower. About 10 minutes in, O'Hare received a beautiful cross and got a good look with a header, but it sailed over the crossbar. Aces' junior Max Shapiro made a couple of nice dribble runs into the attacking zone but couldn't pull the trigger on either one. 'Stoga was spreading the field nicely, but had trouble finishing as the LM defenders marked well. With just 4 minutes left in regulation Jenkins again came up with a huge save to keep the game 1-1. In the last 2 minutes each team had chances but could not convert, and it was on to OT for the 2nd game in a row.

The difference in the game was the Pioneer long thrower, and 3 minutes into the 1st overtime period that would decide the game. His throw was right on the head of a 'Stoga striker and Jenkins had no chance. 2-1 Conestoga.

Every single Aces' player left it all on the field tonight, and they all should be very proud of their effort. They proved that they can play with anybody, and as they move on to the District 1 Playoffs next week, they've got to remember that.