The Hargrave Tigers (4-6-0, 3-0-0) defeated Timberlake (2-6) on Thursday by a final of 3-0 lead by a strong defensive performance that only gave up one shot to the visitors in 80 minutes of play.
In only their second home game of the season the Tigers outshot their opponent by a final of 27-1. The Tigers recorded 18 of those 27 shots in the first half where they also tallied all three of the game’s goals.
The Tiger’s first strike came just six minutes into the match from senior midfielder Scott Dinius. Dinius found ample space within the Timberlake defensive third, and on a solo effort was able to create an open look at goal from the top of the penalty area. Timberlake goalkeeper Matthew Lewis, who played superbly in net for the away side finishing with nine saves, was unable to handle the Dinius strike that gave the Tigers the 1-0 advantage.
The Tiger’s were able to create several more great opportunities in the Timberlake area, but were unable to find the net yet again until the 28:37 mark. Senior forward JD Skinner recorded his second of the season after picking up a loose ball around the Timberlake penalty mark, and with the quick strike barried the ball past Lewis for the Tiger’s second. The Tigers would continue to test Lewis throughout the first half, but the Timberlake goalkeeper would make several outstanding saves to keep the away side in the match. Although, the Tiger’s most impressive goal came two minutes after the Skinner strike from senior forward Seth Spears in the 31st minute. The Spear’s goal began from a quickly switched ball from around the center mark by Dinius who found sophomore wing Jin Suk Seo open along the right flank. Seo controlled the Dinius switch, took one touch forward, and then sent a perfectly placed long ball into the box in-behind the Timberlake defense. Spears ran onto the Seo long-ball, staying onsides, and netted the 3-0 advantage over the goalkeeper.
The first half, and the match would end at 3-0. The Tigers were able to create a few more chances during the second half as they were able to record nine more shots, but only were able to put four shots on goal that were all turned away by Timberlake’s Lewis.
Although, the most impressive stat for the Tigers is only giving up one shot in the match to their opponent. Starting goalkeeper Nathan Bloom saw his first action on the field for the Tigers as he played 80 minutes along the defensive line for the home side, and complimented the impressive defensive performance also put up by seniors Charles Field, Austin Koeneman and junior Mike Dalpini. Back-up goalkeeper Brad Faught only witnessed one shot come his way, but was not needed to make the save.
The Tigers now move to 3-0 in conference play, and will look to win their third straight as they take on Notre Dame Academy on Saturday.
