After a frustrating first half, the Schoolcraft Women’s Soccer team regrouped and dominated the second half, securing a 3-0 shutout over Muskegon CC.
The match, which started with a 0-0 score, ended with the home team showing their superiority on the field.
The first half was marked by the total control of the Ocelots despite the story the scoreboard told.
The team created 10 scoring opportunities, but Jayhawks’ goalkeeper Jessica Stewart had an impressive performance, making 8 crucial saves to keep the score at zero. Meanwhile, on the other side, the Jayhawks only managed a single shot, which was promptly saved.
“At halftime, we emphasized the importance of maintaining possession by passing and moving the ball effectively, which would allow us to create more opportunities to finish in the final third. We also discussed the value of working together as a team, supporting one another on and off the ball, and staying committed to securing the win for each other,” said co-captain Trista Bird.
The locker room talk at halftime seemed to have worked.
With just one minute into the second half, Raina Lutz opened the scoring, receiving a precise pass from Jessica Clyde.
The Ocelots’ pressure continued. After 30 minutes, Jessica Clyde appeared again with an assist, finding Brianna Murphy, who scored the second goal making it 2-0.
To seal the victory, the connection between the Vendermergel sisters shone in the final minutes.
Elaina Vendermergel made a great pass to Ella Vendermergel , who scored the final goal to close out the match at 3-0.
The Ocelots are now 5-2 on the season, 2-0 in the conference showing superiority in the NJCAA Region X11. Schoolcraft’s next game will be Wed, Sept. 24, at 1 p.m. against Kellogg Community College.
