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Blue Eagles soar to victory
(by Erin Patricia Griffiths - September 23, 2008)
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Photos By Robert S. Pytel
On Saturday, Sept. 20, IHA defeated Bridgewater 2-0. C.J. Graetzer, pictured center, had two assists in the game.
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With solid plays on the field and fire in their hearts, the IHA Blue Eagles soccer team is ready to continue improving their lines and working on the skills they already possess as a unit in their pursuit of a championship title.
“I hope we can build on it,” said Coach Steve Silver. “I hope that we are just building on our style of play and confidence and our chemistry and our team work.”
IHA’s chemistry on the field is obvious, as they appear to effortlessly transition the ball between their players and lines, control in every movement.
On Saturday, Sept. 20, the Blue Eagles defeated Bridgewater in a 2-0 victory, never losing possession of the ball long enough to allow their opponents to score. “We brought a quality team up to play us,” said Silver. “We try to always upgrade our schedule. We bring teams like this up to play just to see what we are made of a little bit and that’s the reasoning.”
Despite the challenge of a team with solid defense and aggressive offense, IHA was not rattled. The team stepped up their sharp, calculated performance, and secured a win at home, with goals in the first and second halves. “About 10 minutes into the match, I felt comfortable with how we were playing. That makes me happy,” said Silver. “And the icing on the cake is getting the victory.”
In the first half, Bridgewater demonstrated their power on the field and their worth as opponents for the undefeated Blue Eagles. They proved to be strong with their heads and quick on their feet. But IHA stayed in control, never letting the ball get through to threaten scoring.
About halfway through the first half of the game, C.J. Graetzer set up a corner kick, which was drilled into the net by Erin McGovern for the first goal of the game. A second goal was scored by Ashley Clarke in the second half, with a second corner kick by Graetzer. “She is just so dangerous everywhere on the field. It is great to see,” said Silver of the versatile Graetzer.
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A second goal was scored by Ashley Clarke in the second half, with a second corner kick by Graetzer.
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In goal, Kate Courter made four saves in the game. “She is just playing very cleanly and communicating. And the freshman in front of her, Emily Werner looks so good,” said Silver.
“It was a great game. We are very happy with our performance,” said Silver. “It’s a great school and it attracts great students and great athletes in all sports. I am very lucky. They are great kids.”
Erin Patricia Griffiths' e-mail address is GriffithsE@northjersey.com.
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