Posted: 9/19/07
Chisago Wildcats blank North Branch boys soccer
 Members of the North Branch soccer team run a cool-down lap around the field after their 1-0 loss to the Spring Lake Park Panthers Sept. 6. |
The North Branch boys varsity soccer team continues to improve, despite a 2-0 loss to the Chisago Wildcats on Sept. 13, said head coach Brad Gustafson.
Two years ago, the Vikings were shut out in a 0-12 routing at the hands of the Wildcats. In 2006, Chisago beat the Vikings 4-0.
"These scores are evidence of the Vikings continued improvements and effort," Gustafson said.
While the Vikings are still looking for their first win of the season, the team has played well the past three games, Gustafson explained.
The team gave out three game balls after the Chisago match.
The first went to Austin Holmes, the Vikings sophomore goalkeeper. Gustafson said Holmes' effort the last three games has been incredible
"He's really stepped up his game and is playing some solid minutes. His play against the Wildcats was superb," Gustafson said.
The Vikings leading scorer this season, Brian Grand, is also playing well. Grand manufactured a couple quality scoring chances versus Chisago. He broke through the defense and blasted a shot the Wildcat keeper was lucky to stop. On an another play, Grand earned a break-away that may have resulted in a goal, but the team was called for a foul off the ball.
Next week, Gustafson will has plans to move Grand to the forward position.
Drew Lundquist gets the third and final game ball for his efforts against the Wildcats.
"The team relies on his discipline, footwork and sound tactics each and every match. One major factor in the Vikings continued improvement is the play of Lundquist on defense. Lundquist, also a tri-captain, is trusted by his teammates too," Gustafson said. "The midfielders and other fullbacks know they can rely on Lundquist and utilize him often."
"It's not easy going 0-8. I know how hard our team is working, so it kind of hurts to see the guys be disappointed after a tough fought match that results in another loss. I'm trying to hammer home the message that their effort and improvement is not going unnoticed. Our team can no longer be glanced over by opponents, and has played several tight games in a row. We're going to keep working hard, and the wins will come. I'm confident of that, and very proud of the young men in our program," Gustafson said.
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