Oxford High School girl’s soccer has had one tough season – the team currently sits 0-15-1 overall and 0-9 in the league.
This past week, the Lady Cats faced off against the Brandon Blackhawks on May 14, resulting in an 0-4 loss.
‘This is the third time we’ve played Brandon,? said Coach Val Cerato, who has kept a positive outlook this year.
In fact, she is impressed with the improvement she’s seen over the season. According to her records, during the first nine games of the season, the ladies only had 34 shots on goal. In the last five games alone, including Brandon, the Lady Cats have increased their offense and taken 75 shots on goal.
‘That’s like a four-fold increase,? said Cerato. ‘That’s a good thing that we’re getting some shots off and generating some offense.?
At the Brandon game, Kristy Fortier, Deann Kujawa, Sam Marshall and Reiley took a combined 16 shots on goal. Also, JV players Jenna Nelson and Annaliese McKeown were brought up to assist.
‘Jenna’s been placed as an official varsity player now,? Cerato added. ‘She fits in wonderfully and is a great asset to the team.?
On May 16, Oxford lost to Lapeer West 1-3. The Lady Cats only goal was scored by Nicole Bennett, who normally plays up top.
Cerato said Bennett was passed the ball just outside the goal box. She took a good touch and sent the shot right through a group of West players for the goal.
All in all, Oxford had 14 goal shots to West’s 11. The strongest player for the night was Courtney Vassal on defense.
‘Every time I looked back there and a group had gathered around the ball, there was Courtney popping out with the ball,? said Cerato.
The Lady Cats are preparing to once again face Brandon – this time for district competition on May 27 at home.
‘I think we can beat Brandon,? said Cerato. ‘I’m not giving up hope yet.?