By By ERIKA PICKLES / Niles Daily Star
NILES – Powerhouse Vicksburg didn't get away with an easy win Monday evening against the Niles varsity soccer team.
The Bulldogs claimed a 1-0 win, having to work extremely hard the entire game to earn the point.
The Lady Vikes played a tough, early match against Vicksburg and were evenly matched with the Bulldogs throughout the entire first half. However, Vicksburg came out strong in the second half and scored its lone goal on its third consecutive corner kick.
"We gave up too many corner kicks and it ended up getting us," Viking head coach Denise Peters said.
Autumn Lucero led the Lady Vikes with four saves at the net. Peters said she did an excellent job in the goal.
Kaitlyn Touhey was able to contain Vicksburg star player Simmons.
"Kate pretty much took every opportunity for her to be a factor in the game. Though Simmons did offer the assist for the goal from the corner kick," Peters said.
Peters said that Niles' defense is young, but tough. "In fact, that describes the whole team."
Abby Mitchell and Mandie Pingel led the team with great mid and defensive play.
"Brianna Cramer has been steady all year, coming in strong as a sophomore. Sarah Tyler has been playing outstanding for the Vikings, playing strong, winning balls and getting good touches," Peters continued, "Dakota Price and Meghan Horn work good combinations in the front, but the key is for every player there is a reserve that is ready to step in and fill the job. Courtney Teske and Alyssa Booe bring good control and smart play to the midfield. We are very deep and new faces to the roster like Raphaele Reigger and Allison Ott have been a nice surprise. We are young but look forward to a great season."
The Lady Vikes are back in action on Thursday when they host Three Rivers for a 5:45 p.m. game.
The Niles junior varsity soccer team suffered a 3-1 loss to Vicksburg Monday evening.