#20 NorthWood - #5 Mishawaka Marian 1-2 (1-1)

A great effort by the Panthers tonight as they face a good Marian squad. NW plays very organized in the back and goes ahead in the 13th on a Solomom goal who deals very well with a long punt from Trent Iwema (assist). As Sol controls the ball in the box, he is able to get away from the defender and slot the ball past the Mishawaka goalie. Unfortunately, three minutes later a free kick just outside our 18, ties up the game as the shot goes thru a NW wall that parts like the Red Sea. NW gets quite a few chances inside the box throughout the game but is unable to capitalize on them. The ball doesn't bounce our way. Trent has a fantastic stop right before the half to keep us in the game. Trace takes the spot between the uprights in the second half. In the 46th, a shot outside the box finds the back of the net even though Trace is quick to go down and reaches as far as he can to his right. Despite some good opportunities for both teams, the score remains 1-2 in an entertaining game that shows we can play with anyone. Our midfield and defensive organization in the second half lags a little when it comes to preventing a gap in transition but that is something we can work on. Next week is a busy one; with games on Monday (Glenn-home), Tuesday (Plymouth- away) and Thursday (Bethany - home/senior night). Sunday Night is the IHSAA Sectional Draw and tomorrow is the JV Teagarden Soccer Showcase in Ft. Wayne.