The Bulldogs traveled to Waverly tonight with a much retooled squad. Last year saw many graduating seniors move on, so many new faces making their debuts. The first half was as much about playing together as a team as it was about playing against Waverly. That first half was pretty much a stalemate although we felt that we had the better of opportunities.

In the second half things finally broke open and although the score was close, really we started playing much better and were beginning to combine passes in a positive way. It's still early and we have a lot of work to do to develop our team play, but there are a lot of positives from tonight to point toward exciting times to come this season. 

Although every player made solid contributions tonight, here are just a few highlights of the Match:
Senior Matt McCoy stepped in between the sticks and got his first ever match as a Goalkeeper with many fine saves.
Senior Zane Sarka kept challenging Waverly's defense and struck for two goals.
Senior Gage Flanner was in the right place to grab a rebound off of a free kick, directing the ball into the net to open his goal scoring account for the season. 
Incoming Freshman Damon Lautenbach started in the center of the midfield and put in a spirited performance.
Senior Carter Castillo and Sophomore Scotti Kimber led the defensive effort really working over the Waverly attackers.

It was a good challenge tonight, but now we must turn our attention to preparations for the next match scheduled for Friday Aug. 18 home against Lansing Eastern with JV kick-off at 5:30 pm followed by Varsity at 7pm.

Stats at a Glance
Ionia 3 - Waverly 2
Shots: 8

Goals:
Zane Sarka 2
Gage Flanner 1

Assists:

Matt McCoy - Gets the win in goal with 6 saves. 

Overall Record: 1-0-0
Conference Record: 0-0-0