Sept. 15, 2010 - The annual clash of local soccer rivals took place this afternoon on Concordia's pitch as the Cougars hosted the Dominican Stars. This contest was settled in the first half as the visitors erupted for six goals and went on to an 8-1 victory.
The Stars broke the ice 10 minutes into the match as Stephanie Perretta converted from 10 yards out. Less than a minute later, the score became 2-0. Kayla Henckel (West Bend, WI/Living Word Lutheran) made a tough save on a close-in shot, but the ball popped up in front of the goal. Adrienne Ryba was there and, with her back to the goal, flicked the ball over her shoulder and into the wide-open net.
Ryba would score another goal, and Kelly Petty added three for the Stars. However, the Cougars put together arguably their best soccer of the young season during the second half, and their tenacity paid off in the 69th minute. Freshman Angela Powers (Palos Heights, IL/Shepard) made a strong run up the middle and was tripped up while preparing to shoot. The referee awarded a penalty kick, and Lindsay Dyal (Eagle River, AK/Chugiak) converted from the spot, beating Katie Petty low to the left for a well-earned tally.
The Cougars' offense was led by Dyal's three shots and two each from Powers and Alyssa Soulis (Grayslake, IL/Grayslake North). In addition, the team received a good showing from sophomore midfielder Blythe Harkenrider (Fort Wayne, IN/Concordia Lutheran) who returned to the team after playing in 19 games last season.
Concordia will host Lakeland College on Sunday afternoon at 3:00 following the men's game.
