LHS boys’ soccer started off the season Wednesday with a convincing 2-1 win over the opposing Evanston Wildkits.
Senior Cameron Fragassi scored just 3 minutes into the game after he chipped the charging goalkeeper as the ball soared just below the bar. The goal set the tone for the rest of the game, maybe even the rest of the season, as the Cats look to start each game with energy and efficiency.
After taking a quick 1-0 lead, Evanston capitalized on a defensive mishap. After a failed clearance effort in the box, the ball continued to take two unlucky bounces before finding the Evanston midfielder for a quick finish into the lower corner of the net. LHS goalkeeper Sam Muchmore dove one way, attempting to make a miraculous save, but the goal-scorer simply finished in the opposite direction.
The Wildcats would bounce back right before the end of the half, however. Senior captain Trey Toohey made a run on a through ball played by senior Jeff Wagner. The goalkeeper, just like the first goal, charged again. Without hesitation, Toohey chipped the ball over the head of the keeper to take the lead.
After the game, senior captain Ryan Pacholski spoke of the importance of winning the first game.
“It feels great winning our first home game. This will get everybody’s confidence up for our next game,” stated Pacholski.
Even after winning, Pacholski knows the team can’t dwell on the victory too long; they have to look at the next game.
“For Friday’s game, I believe we need to work on our possession and composure. We need to keep the ball on the ground and keep our touches clean,” said Pacholski.
The Wildcats resume action this Friday against Lake Zurich. The game will be at home at 5 p.m.
