In a highly competitive and physical affair, the Kits fell 1-0 to rival New Trier in their opening conference game of the season.
Despite the defeat, the Kits were able to walk off the field with their heads raised high, knowing that they just went toe-to-toe with the defending state champions and current #13-ranked team in the country.
“I was extremely proud of the performance today. Even though we lost, I thought that we played one of our best games of the season,” remarked junior goalkeeper Kanako Wagner, who kept the Trevians at bay throughout the night, making ten saves.
The Kits started the game off on the front foot, as Junior Bridget Durkin was located in acres of space on the left wing. She drove the ball toward the goal before cutting inside and firing the ball with her right foot toward the top corner, but Trevian’s Sophomore Goalkeeper Annie Fowler brilliantly kept out the attempt. The save would be the spark that the Trevians needed as they took control of the ball, and in the 23rd minute, Junior Abby Morton was found wide open just outside the Kits’ six-yard box, and she headed the ball past Wagner for the game’s only goal.
“When you play a team that is as skilled as New Trier, it only takes one defensive lapse to cost you the game,” explained Head Coach Stacy Salgado.
In the waning minutes of the first half, Wagner made a pair of great saves of her own, keeping sophomore Addy Randall and senior Honor Dold from doubling the Trevians’ lead before the break.
“I was really happy to see that we were able to match their physicality throughout the game and especially in the first half. I think that was a major reason we were able to keep the game so tight,” commented Salgado.
Unfortunately for the Kits, the Trevians played lockdown defense for the entire second half, only allowing three shots from the Kits in the entire second frame. They were able to cut down the supply line to Durkin, which had an adverse effect on their entire attack.
While they now will need some help, the Kits remain hopeful that they can claim the conference crown for a fourth season in a row.
“We lost to New Trier last year and were still able to win the conference, so I don’t see why this group of girls can’t do the same,” said Salgado.
The Kits will have their next five games on the road. A stretch that will start with a non-conference game against Middleton on Friday, April 25th.
