A quick start in each half sparked the Niles boys soccer team Tuesday in its 4-0 win over Bridgman.

Sam Rodts’ goal from 25 yards gave the Vikings a 1-0 lead 55 seconds into the match.

To start the second half, Niles quickly added to its 2-0 lead. Ben Florkowski scored from five yards less than two minutes into the half.

“I like to throw the first punch,” said first-year Niles boys soccer coach Danny Rodts. “I’d like to say that we’re here to play. This is what we’re bringing to the table right off the bat. That way there’s no chance for the opponent to feel like they have a chance against us.”

The Vikings didn’t let go of the momentum after the fast starts. Niles outshot Bridgman, 28-5. The Vikings were effective offensively in each half. Niles had 13 shots in the first half and 15 in the second.

Florkowski’s second goal gave the hosts a 2-0 lead with 2:44 left in the first half. The goal came after Nicholas Suckle’s shot bounced off Bridgman goalie John Hess towards Florkowski, who converted on the shot.

Niles took a 4-0 lead on Jose Magana’s goal from five yards with 27:39 left in the match.

Rodts feels his team has room for improvement on offense.

“Defensively, we were very sound,” Rodts said. “We have a strong defense led by Sam (Rodts) and Sheldon Mudd. The guys back there work very well together. The whole team in general has good chemistry. Offensively, we’re still figuring some things out. But the offensive is coming along. The boys are getting after it.”

 

Bridgman…0

Niles…4

Halftime Score

First Half

Niles 2, Bridgman 0

 

First half

N – Sam Rodts (Ben Florkowski assist) 39:05

N – Florkowski (Nicholas Suckle assist) 2:44

 

Second half

N – Florkowski 38:04

N – Jose Magana 27:39

 

Shots on goal

Niles 28, Bridgman 5

 

Saves

Bridgman 9 (John Hess)

Niles 1 (Mika Farinella, Marcus Hurt 1)

 

Corner kicks

Niles 4

Bridgman 0

 

Varsity records

Bridgman 1-4-1, Niles 3-1