Uckert and Bettwy lead Strikers U15 over Brookville

Uckert and Bettwy lead Strikers U15 over Brookville

(Photo by Matt Lerch) Thomas Uckert prepares to take the shot.

Wednesday evening (May, 27th) the Clarion River Valley Strikers U15 coed soccer squad defeated Brookville 4-2 under the lights at Clarion County Park.  The game was an even match-up, with both soccer teams sporting deep benches and equal firepower. 

The game began with much of the action played on both sides of the field, as both teams tried to find weaknesses in their midfields and defense.  Clarion had the first break when midfielder Thomas Uckert deftly dribbled around several defenders, finding Brendan Bettwy who shot on goal for his first score.  Bettwy’s second score came soon after, when several Strikers tried to shoot and Bettwy’s shot found the back of the net making the score 2-0. 

As the defense held tough for the Strikers in the first half. Goalkeeper Logan Bish saved 6 shots from finding paydirt with one save requiring a dive.   Uckert worked feverishly, dribbling down the field and decided to take a long shot and he delivered.  Uckert scored from 30 yards out over the glove of the Brookville keeper. 

It was halftime, but this Brookville team made some adjustments by switching wings from both sides of the field.  The speed on the Brookville offense exploited a chink in the armor of the Strikers defense, scoring to make the game 3-1.  Uckert decided to intercept an attempted defensive clear and scored on a solo shot making the game 4-1. 

A hand ball was called against the Strikers deep on the right side of the field.  The Brookville wing took the shot which was a grounder into the box and with an awaiting undefended forward taking an unfettered shot, the game was 4-2 Clarion. 

Goalkeeper Bish made 7 more saves in the second half.  As they say, the best defense is a strong offense and Clarion forward JJ Wilson created several opportunities of her own late in the second half, keeping the ball in the Brookville end.  Her shots were stopped but nonetheless, her grittiness took the word tenacity to a new level. 

The game ended with the score 4-2, with the Strikers knowing they downed a formidable opponent in Lake Division play. 

The Strikers return to action next week.

Thanks to Matt Lerch for this article and photo. Good Work Strikers!!!!