Kickers shut out Carman Ainsworth on Monday in the first round of MHSAA Districts playoffs, 6-0.
“We did pretty good,” said Clarkston Boys Varsity Soccer Coach Curtis Payment. “It was a frustrating beginning of the game because we just couldn’t seem to break down their defense. Then, as soon as we started to attack wide it all opened up.”
The scoring began when senior Brad Schultz crossed the ball in front of the net and senior Alex Trim ran in to finish the play. He sank the ball into the back of the net with 21:44 left in the first half, putting the score 1-0.
The boys scored two more times within the last three minutes of the first half. The first goal came from Jared D’Autremont off another cross pass from Schultz with 2:37 on the clock.
Thirty-three seconds later the Wolves scored again. This time the ball came loose and David Posawatz took the opportunity to run in and kick it into the net, putting the score 3-0.
The boys opened the second half with a goal from Ryan Callahan, scored none minutes in off and assist from Joey DeFinis.
They took two more shots on goal before they scored again at 23:13 with a kick from DeFinis. With a final goal from Ryan Kissel scored the final goal, the game ended 6-0.
“We got to play a lot of people and everone played well,” said Payment. “I have confidence in everyone of our guys but it is nice to give them some work just in case. It was a fun night.”
He added this game will help as they move on.
“Hopefully it will give us a good feeling,” he said. “As we approach the next few games we will be a little different stragedy wise. We wanted to take advantage of our turf, play wide and some of the things we are used to. We have to change gears and play on grass. We are in a big place mentally and everyone is healthy and happy.
The Wolves tied with Bloomfield on Oct. 8, 1-1. DeFinis scored the lone goal. Grant Gotaas had 11 saves during the game.
“He played amazing,” said Payment. “Several of the saves were spectacular.”
The boys beat Flushing last Thursday, 6-2. D’Autremont led the team with a hat trick. Trim, Brandon Reynolds and Mitch Menard contributed with the three remaining goals.
The Wolves move on to the second round on Wednesday against Swartz Creek, 6:45 p.m. The championship game is Saturday at noon. Both games are at Davison.
The winner will play Tuesday at Rochester at 7 p.m. Find out how the boys did on Twitter @CNewsWRSports.