By By ADAM FISHER / Niles Daily Star
Niles' offense didn't score a lot in Thursday's SMAC soccer tournament game, but it didn't have to. The Vikings' defense held Sturgis scoreless, limiting the Trojans to nine shots on goal in a 2-0 Niles' victory.
After the Vikings lost 2-1 Tuesday to Loy Norrix, coach Jerry Holtgren said his team had opportunities, but just didn't finish. Thursday, Niles was able to score the only goal it would need early.
Michael Tanke struck at the 24:37 mark of the first half with a goal off an assist from Joe Dunnett. Dunnett kicked a crossing pass from the corner that Tanke put in the net.
From there, Aaron Ralston scored on a penalty kick with six minutes remaining in the game for Niles to finish off the Trojans.
With the victory, the Vikings took third place in the SMAC's Black Division tournament. The conference tournament is split into two divisions, the Silver for the top eight teams and the Black for the bottom eight teams. Niles was the No. 1 seed in the Black tournament.
Niles outshot Sturgis 18-9. Coquillard registered seven saves for the Vikings.
The Vikings finish the season at 9-5-1 and now prepare to face the No. 6 team in the state, St. Joseph, Monday. The match is scheduled to begin at 5 p.m.