Three losses on the road for CL girls soccer team

The Clear Lake girls soccer team will be looking for a fresh start in the post-season next week.  The Lions saw their losing streak extended to five with three losses on the road last week.

A-P 6, CL 1

The Lions came out sluggish at Aplington-Parkersburg and the home team made them pay for it.  Clear Lake trailed 3-0 at the half, but after and hour and one-half rain delay they played a stronger second half, but lost 6-1.

“I could not have been more proud of how the girls stepped up in the second half,” said Coach Steve Faber.    “Offensively, Julia Merfeld, Sara Faber and Jessica Faber, along with Lizzie Lakose, all did a nice job of attacking and staying strong upfront.  The defensive backfield, especially Taylor Hill and Lexi Holtz, really stepped up for us in that second half as well.”

Merfeld scored the Lions’ only goal in the contest.  Jessica Faber had the assist.

Sara Faber took two shots on goal and Merfeld had one.

Goal keeper Ana Starbeck had three save, while Kayla Ritter made five.

  “Moving forward, for us to have success we have to learn how to come out with more intensity,” added Coach Faber.

Nevada 10, CL 0

Thursday, the Lions faced the number one team in the region, and Nevada provide why they are so highly regarded.  The Cubs forced the mercy rule into effect with seven minutes left in the game. They won by a 10-0 score.

“The Lions fought a tough game, but Nevada’s skill set and ball movement were something we haven’t seen all season,” said Coach Faber.  “You could tell by watching them that they play year-round.  Perhaps with some extra work in the off-season we will be able to compete at their level.”

Sara Faber took two shots on goal.  Jessica Faber and Julia Merfeld each had one turned away.

IF-A 6, CL 3

The Lions played their best game of the week, but came up short against Iowa Falls-Alden, 6-3.

“With multiple players out with injuries we relied on some new faces,” explained Coach Faber.

Sophomore Hope Shaman took the field at defender and usual keeper Ana Starbeck was a mid-fielder.

“We were able to string together a few good attacks, but still fell short,” said Faber.  “I’m pleased with how the girls and responded from the loss to Nevada.”

The Lions took four shots on goal in the match.  Sara Faber scored two goals, while Julia Merfeld had one goal and an assist.

Kayla Ritter had 12 saves in the net for the Lions.