Stratford vs Northbrook

15-Feb-2022

On Tuesday our Stratford Lady Spartans finished their first round of district games against Northbrook. Stratford kept the ball on Northbrook’s end for most of the first half. Twenty minutes into the game, after lots of back and forth in front of the goal, Lauren Ahern got the ball to Kristin Geczik putting Stratford on the board 1-0. Stratford continued its offensive drive. Rileigh Toner had a great shot that hit an opposing player, Elizabeth Prentzantzin was able to capitalize off the bounce for the score making it 2-0 heading into the half.  

Stratford continued to keep the ball on Northbrook’s side during the second half. Despite many great shots on goal, Northbrook goalie Jysell Sampedro made some truly amazing saves for a scoreless second half. Stratford wins, 2-0. 

Stratford vs Cy-Fair

18-Feb-2022

Stratford visited Pridgeon Stadium to take on Cy-Fair in a titanic matchup of powerful teams in district 17-6A.  The game kicked off with back-and-forth action as both sides had a few opportunities to score in the first half.  Our Spartans seemed to have slightly better ball possession and control of the action, but the Bobcats parlayed their few chances into dangerous threats.  A couple of great saves by goal keeper Allison Zilafro were required to send the teams to the break still tied after a scoreless half.

Both teams came out the 2nd half determined to impose their will on the opponent.  The fast action continued until midway through the half as Ryann Weber was able to pick up a loose ball in space on the left side, setup the goalie with a perfect touch, and score as she buried the shot in the back of the net!  The fans for both teams were really getting into it at this point.

The tight action continued, but unfortunately for Stratford, the Bobcats scored back-to-back goals when our gals were unable to clear a couple of balls from near the top of the penalty area.  We came back and dominated possession the last 10 minutes of the game but were unable to convert the equalizer.  The game ended 1-2, as Stratford absorbed our first loss in district play.

Notable plays on defense were turned in by Allison Goodwin and Ellie Stephenson (in addition to Allison Zilafro).  And consistent play in the midfield was continued by Rileigh Toner, Lizzy Emerson, Elizabeth Pretzantzin and others. Make no mistake about it - Cy Fair is a good team and we will be better in the playoffs with the things we learned tonight!  The Lady Spartans return to action next Tuesday night at home against Cy Ridge.