By Adam Knoll
Sports Correspondent
In traveling to Evansville, the Whitewater High School girls soccer team was looking forward to a tough game that would eventually produce a win. Unfortunately, they got the tough game they expected – and maybe more as they were handed a tough loss in the process.
As expected, it was a physical first half with the midfield seeing plenty of action as both teams attacked to create scoring opportunities. But it was Evansville, in the 29th minute of the game, who finally broke through on a penalty kick after a defensive breakdown.
Now down 1-0, the Whip-pets needed to buckle down and try to equalize. The next 15 or so minutes saw more physical effort as bodies flew around the pitch trying to find opportunities.
The game went to the half with the score still at 1-0.
The second half was much of the same. Both teams continued the physical play, while battling the strong wind coming across the field.
As the minutes wore down, Evansville became more and more defensive in their play, which enabled the Whippets to mount a more sustained attack.
Though Whitewater had a few chances, the defense and goalkeeping of Evansville won out, and the first half penalty kick proved to be the difference.
The Whippets defensive line of Melani Maroske, Abby Martinez, Yvanna Strait and Amanda Kaayvanger was imposing despite the loss. At the goal, Allison Sekmak had seven saves.
“(We) knew Evansville was a team that they would contend for the conference title,” coach Rene Menager said after the contest. “The girls played well, but we still need to be able to score from the chances we create.”
Whitewater is now 2-2-0 in conference, and 4-2-1 overall.
