Wildcat soccer edge Altoona in season opener
BALD EAGLE TOWNSHIP, PA – The Central Mountain boys soccer team had their home opener Wednesday night, and they did not disappoint. A first half goal from Pierce Long was all they needed, beating fellow D6 AAAA opponent Altoona 1-0 at Malinak Stadium.
The game started with the Wildcats on their heels. Altoona immediately took possession and worked the ball well. Every ball the Wildcats won they immediately turned back over. A great counterattack started by Long calmed the nerves. Long found Lincoln Breon wide on a great ball through to the left side. Breon took a few touches and rifled a ball across the box to Peyton Jones who missed the first time shot just wide.
The Wildcats found themselves more comfortable on the ball and were able to build a few attacks, with Altoona doing the same. Finally, a slip up on a clearance and a keeper high up the field, Long intercepted a clearance and calmly placed a ball into the back of the net. The low-driven ball from outside the box was beautifully placed.
The second half found a few more good chances from both teams. A great defensive performance from the backline helped secure the win. Cole Cooper and Bronson Brungard played 80 minutes in control of the back line. Griffin Confer, Isaiah Brinker, Taylor Heaton, and Max Verrelli played strong on the outside.
The goalies went home with smiles on their faces. Luke Simcox got his first career start in goal, making multiple big saves and keeping Altoona at zero in the first half. Jaggar Pardoe came in relief in the second half, jumping on a few loose balls and attacking the ball high to secure the shutout.
The Wildcats are back at home on Tuesday, September 5, against PHAC opponent Warrior Run. At 7 p.m.
