Boys Soccer: Andrew blanks Lincoln-Way East
By Steve Millar For Sun-Times Media September 11, 2012 10:38PM
Updated: October 14, 2012 1:39PM
Andrew coach Pat MacDonald thought his team was outplayed in Tuesday night’s showdown vs. Lincoln-Way East.
In the end, though, the Thunderbolts found a way to remain unbeaten.
Jesus Mendez scored the match’s only goal and E.J. Kirn continued his great start to the season with four big saves as Andrew improved to 8-0 with a 1-0 SouthWest Suburban crossover win in Tinley Park.
The T-bolts already have doubled their win total from a 4-15-1 campaign in 2011.
“It feels awesome,” Kirn said. “It’s good to finally get some respect for our team and our school and fans that support us.”
Andrew converted on one of its few second-half chances as, after a throw-in deep in Griffins territory, Glorind Lisha’s cross connected with Mendez in the box, where the sophomore finished with a high shot past Sean McGovern (7 saves) with 22:28 to go.
East (4-2-3) had ample opportunity to find the equalizer, putting four free kicks into the box, but failed to connect in the box on all four.
“When you have all those chances and can’t get anyone to get to the ball, that shows we weren’t as determined to win as they were,” East coach Ryan Decker. “We had our chances early and late and we didn’t seize the moment.”
On all of East’s later threats, the ball found its way into Kirn’s hands.
“On those free kicks, it seems like there’s about 20 of their players and one of me, but I’ve just got to get my hands on the ball and hold on for dear life.”
The Griffins controlled play early and generated plenty of opportunities in the opening minutes, with Seth Adams harassing the T-bolts back line into several turnovers.
“They came out and took it to us,” MacDonald said. “They got us on our heels and I think it was a wake-up call.
“Right now, we’re 8-0 ... and it’s a phenomenal experience.”
