Round 9: North Defeats LaSalle, 2-1

EARLY GOAL ERASED FOR FALCON VICTORY

North hosted LaSalle today in a pivotal PCL Red Division soccer clash at Archbishop Ryan. North was undefeated in regular season action while LaSalle was sitting tied for third place after 8 games.

As has been North's trend in important games this year, they found themselves behind very early in the match. On a corner kick in the third minute, a miscommunication between keeper John McCarthy and his defense led to LaSalle's score from a few yards from goal.

You could not describe this first half as clinical soccer, but North seemed to be gathering some momentum as the end of the half approached. Junior forward Juan Pablo Martinez had a couple scoring opportunities late in the half, but to no avail. Senior midfielder, Carl Essenthier continued his outstanding play by creating several attacking opportunities for North but the half ended with LaSalle still in front 1-0.

The second half was completely different from the first. North commanded the game and the pace of play. The ball remained on the pitch most of the half, mainly on LaSalle's side of the field. North had several scoring opportunities. Senior midfielder, Pat Greer was thwarted by LaSalle's keeper early in the half. A couple of crossing balls into the penalty area were unable to be knocked home. About ten minutes into the half North even the score. Essenthier received a ball, low in the box on the right side of the field. He was able to dart on a diagonal toward goal going right to left, cut the ball to his right foot and hammered a hard shot that somehow found the inside of net between the right post and the goaltenders head.

North continued to put pressure on the LaSalle defense throughout this half. Head coach, Jerry Brindisi opted to attack with three forwards rather than the customary two to try to win the game in regulation. LaSalle was able to survive, and regulation ended with both teams still knotted at 1 goal apiece.

In the first sudden death (victory as PIAA would like it to be known) period, the play was identical to that of the second half with North attacking and LaSalle defending and countering. About 5 minutes into the period, Senior midfielder, Mike Gredzlik gained possession of the ball near midfield. He pushed forward and found an unmarked Carl Essenthier on the right sideline. Carl saw Juan Pablo Martinez streaking into the box on an inside run. Carl one timed a pass into his path which Juan Pablo took to goal. A touch later, he slid a low shot in the far right corner to give North the victory.

DID YOU SEE...........

SUPERFANS abounded at this contest, as usual Tim Murphy was in attendance along with his brother Bob. Bartender of the Century, an honest man if he says so himself, Mr. Leo Filewicz was also made an appearance. Former North standout, Alby Hewitt also took an early day and watched his Falcons. Finally, Mr. Chris Campbell of Port Richmond fame was in attendance. Chris is the Head coach of Friends Central. As an alumnist of North, especially the soccer program, Chris has been integral with our success, thanks Chris.

Scroll down for the review of our Alumni Game last Saturday. Over 30 Alumnists came out for a day of soccer, camaraderie and friendship. While 30 sounds like a lot, itis small when you know there are a couple thousand soccer alumnists. We know we have some work to do and can use your help. So grab your wife, your kids and/or your grandkids and come root North on, we can use your support.

For schedules and all the results go to: www.northcatholicsoccer.com