Justine Michael, girls soccer
PORT CLINTON – Girls soccer coach Phil Collison had a lot to like about his team’s performance Wednesday night.
It wasn’t just that the Lady Giants defeated Port Clinton 5-0, but rather how it came happened.
Ross benefited from an outstanding defensive performance while also cashing in on corner kicks, a point of emphasis in the last 48 hours since its season-opening win where it missed several good opportunities from the corner.
“We did a good job of maintaining and distributing the ball wide, like we discussed that we needed to improve upon,” Collison said. “And also the set pieces were a very big part of the game tonight. It was nice to be able to get two good goals off of that.”
Both corner kick goals were assisted by junior Justine Michael, who also scored a goal. Haley Guthrie had a goal and an assist while Miranda Shetzer, Elizabeth Bloom and Ashtyn Schneider also tallied goals. Victoria Miller and Addison Burmeister also had assists.
“The midfielders all did really well but Miranda and Addie did a great job of controlling the game in the middle,” Collison said.
Goalkeeper Hailey Taylor could have taken the night off, the defense in front of her was so stout. Collison noted the play of defenders Jordan Relford, Kelby Bickley, Sophie Collison and Michael.
“(Taylor) didn’t touch the ball but once, it really wasn’t even a shot,” Collison said. “The back four defenders played a solid match. That was the key.
“They shut down all the attacks, they did a really good job of clearing the ball tonight and distributing it.”
The Lady Giants upped their record to 2-0 and return to action next Tuesday at Toledo Start.