By By ERIKA PICKLES / Niles Daily Star
NILES – The Niles varsity soccer team came out strong against Three Rivers Thursday evening, but a few critical errors cost the Vikings a 2-1 loss on its home field.
Niles scored within the first two minutes of the game when a pass from Dakota Price found Meghan Horn wide open for the goal.
"They work good combinations together," head coach Denise Peters said.
The Lady Vikes dominated the game, but struggled to score on many different opportunities.
"We are a very young team, but we have a lot of depth. It will all come together and when it does, the Vikings will stand out as a very quality team," Peters said.
The Niles defense, including Abby Mitchell, Kaitlyn Touhey, Bryanna Cramer, Brittney Molnar and Mandie Pingel, held the Cats to minimal quality shots and played outstanding, Peters said.
"Raphael, from Germany and Tearria Murphy bring great speed and control at the striker position. Rachel Smith and Autumn Lucero stepped in for Courtney Teske and Mandie Pingel and did good things in the midfield to give scoring opportunities," Peters said.
Sarah Tyler was also recognized by Peters for her phenomenal game for the Lady Vikes as she won anything that came up her side. She also credited Heather Casey and Alyssa Booe, saying they can step into any position and be effective.
Niles will have plenty of time off as next week is Spring Break. The next opponent will be St. Joseph at home on April 11.
Junior varsity game
It was another big win for the Niles junior varsity soccer team as the Lady Vikes handed Three Rivers a 2-1 loss.
Allison Wakeman scored both goals for the Vikings, but there was a great team effort to make it happen.
The JV are playing with great team play and work ethic.