The long winter is over, so snow wasn’t a problem at the Lady Kickers opening game.
Instead, they faced an hour-long delay on account of lightning.
Officials allowed the teams to play, but cut each half by 10 minutes.
Clarkston took to the field and fought through the downpour, but fell to Utica Stevenson, 3-0.
‘I thought both teams played well even under the conditions. We still have some girls out because of injuries and a couple girls still on vacation. I think all things considered, they did well as a team.? said Clarkston coach Sarah Wasilk. ‘It is good preparation for the season ahead.?
The game showed potential, as each player tried to drive the ball past Stevenson’s defense.
‘Alex Rodebach had a really good game,? said Wasilk. ‘She played really hard for us.?
No points were on the board until the last half of the game.
Stevenson’s Amy Trandell made the first point with 11:52 left.
Clarkston goalie Demaree Wells went out of the net to save the ball, but instead Trandell took the opportunity and shot it past her.
One minute later, Trandell made another goal. She was assisted by Lauren Turkington.
Stevenson’s last goal was made with nine minutes left. Turkington kicked the ball directly into the net on a penalty kick.
Wells saved four of Stevenson’s seven shots on goal.
‘It was a real good battle,? said Utica Stevenson coach Bob Mondoux. ‘It was a good first game for both of teams. They are very fast and I was impressed with their speed. I’m glad we got the game in. Our touch was off, but then again it could’ve been our first game, not a lot of practice and spring break. A lot of things.?
The JV team also began their season. With less than 14 minutes to go, the game was stopped due to lightning. They lost to Utica Stevenson, 4-1.
The varsity team will have their whole team back on Thursday when they play Royal Oak.
‘We have two practices until then,? said Wasilk. ‘Hopefully, we can clean some things up that we saw here tonight and make the necessary changes.?
Then, they will continue the week by playing Stoney Creek on Friday.
Both games are at home. JV begins at 5:30 p.m. with varsity following.