In non-conference varsity boys’ soccer competition, the Peotone Blue Devils beat the Irish of Bishop Mac, 6-2, on Monday, August 21, in Kankakee.
According to Peotone Coach Ryan Murray, “I am very proud of how our team performed in the first match of the season. We came into the game confident we would be able to get the job done. During the first 20 minutes, the team started very slowly. We were flat footed and were not playing the game to our potential. The entire team knew that, and we were able to make a mental shift, which proved necessary to change the tides.
“It can be hard to come back from a slow start, and the mental fortitude shown by our players not to give up was very commendable. Once we were able to re-establish our formation and the players began utilizing each other, we were rolling, and we began playing to our expectations.”
Abraham Horta had an extraordinary 4 goal performance, in addition to Captain Gino Petrizzi’s much needed goal and assist, while Scott Galbreath netted one, as well, giving the Blue Devils 6 goals overall.
“The win was a major team effort, with our deep bench ranging from freshmen to juniors – all getting valuable game time, which will be crucial in the season ahead,” Murray continued. “Overall, I am happy we were able to start the season well against a team with a strong attacking presence. Props to Bishop Mac for their hard-fought game. It was a physical matchup both ways. As the chemistry between players strengthens and our attacking scheme solidifies, the sky’s the limit for this group of young men, and I am honored to be part of their growth!”