BY WENDI REARDON
Special to The Clarkston News
The Clarkston Boys Varsity Soccer team victory over Rochester 3-1 Sept. 11 places them at the top of the Oakland Activities Association.
‘More prepared,? is how Coach Adam Bican began to describe how the Rochester game was different than the previous games. ‘The boys know what it takes. They were mentally prepared and getting stronger.?
The strength showed within the first three minutes of the game. James McCarthy passed the ball in front of Rochester’s goal to teammate Oliver Kupe. Kupe took the opportunity and gave the Wolves their first point.
The Wolves continued to keep the ball on Rochester’s territory. By the midpoint of the first half, Kupe passed the ball to Alec Pappas, who kicked the ball away from the Rochester goalie’s reach and into the corner of the net.
In the second half of the game, Kavon Khani scored the third goal with 15 minutes left on the clock.
For most of the first half of the game, the Wolves kept the ball on Rochester’s territory. If Rochester managed to get the ball to the other side of the field, it was short lived. Clarkston’s defense quickly got the ball out and to their offense, taking it back to Rochester territory.
After half-time, Rochester fought hard to keep the ball in Clarkston territory, with many attempts on goal. Most were cut off by the Wolves? defense or the ball landing right in goalie Scott Messer’s hands.
Only within the last three minutes, Rochester managed to get one point onto the scoreboard. By then, it was too late. Clarkston had already shown, despite windy weather and Rochester’s home advantage, nothing would break their teamwork and determination.
‘They act more like family and work hard for each other,? Bican said.
Knowing their teammates are there for them gives the boys a boost, he said.
The Boys Varsity Soccer team will play at Stoney Creek on Thursday, Sept. 20, and Lake Orion on Sept. 25. Both away games begin at 7 p.m.