Thursday, January 4, 2018

Freshman Duo combine against #6 team in country; NEPS 2018

Fresh off a So Cal HS Classic title, the Lady Vikings return home to host their own national event opening the National Elite Prep Showcase with a draw against the #6 team in the country, Keller High School.

Starting off a bit slow, the Lady Vikings were able to defend their way to a result.  Until about the 12th minute, there were minimal chances created.  Excitement, nerves, youth, playing on the big stage all played a part in the slow start.  "The process never sleeps," junior defender, Maddie Caffey says.  The Lady Vikings are focused on their process and it must align from the first whistle to the final whistle.

The first half saw several chances just miss from a variety of different build ups.  Cross were whipped in, aggressive runs made their way across the box, and a crossbar was hit at one point during the first half of play.  

The matchup between 2 State Semi-Finalists was scoreless at the half.  Head coach, Jay Fitzgerald mentioned to the team at halftime that were had chances but not enough compared to the standard of the team at this specific point of the season.  "We were dangerous 5 times and that is not enough," said Fitzgerald.

The second half was a bit different as the game was more end to end but saw quality moments especially when freshmen, Maggie Tepera and Abby Geiser teamed up for the games first goal and the Lady Vikings ahead.  Tepera slipped a nice ball through to a well timed run from Geiser who beat the Keller goalkeeper to the ball with a toe up under the keeper for the go ahead goal.

The Lady Vikings held off the Lady Indians until just over a minute to play in regulation with several attempts to clear the ball out of the 18 yard box.

"We have high expectations and this game was one of those games we we came so far and if only we could have grinder it out for 62 seconds more.  A draw against the #6 team in the country is very positive for us none the less, " commented Fitzgerald.

Day 2 of NEPS 2018 continues tomorrow as the Lady Vikings take their 9-4-1 record against Florida's, Buchholz High School out of Gainsville, FL at 2:00pm.  The match will be broadcast LIVE on the Official TV Channel of Nolan Catholic Women's Soccer.  CLICK HERE to Watch #lvsLIVE.

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