Lions win opening round in Class 2A Regionals

The Clear Lake boys soccer team won its opening round Class 2A Regional match Monday night, setting up a second round match with Hudson tonight (Wednesday, May 22) at Hudson starting at 5 p.m.

The Lions were 2-1 winners over Iowa Falls-Alden in their post-season opener.

Jack Abbas was first to strike when he finished an attack in the 28th minute.  The score at half was 1-0.  

In the 44th minute Antonio DiMarco weaved his way through three defenders and managed to get off a great shot at the corner of the net, giving the Lions a 2-0 lead.    

The Cadets got on the board with three minutes remaining in the match to end the contest 2-1.  

“Tonight the passing and ball control was the best we’ve been all season,” said Coach Matt Anderson.  “The only struggle we had was placing the ball in the net.  We totaled 16 shots on goal and 30 other shots which were just off target.  Iowa Fall’s keeper ended with career stats in just this one contest.”

The coach said the bigger story line in the contest was the loss of two-year starter Garrett Kunzman.  Kunzman got control of the ball in the defensive third of the field and made a great attack into the offensive third.  Kunzman was tackled, causing him to land awkwardly on his left arm.   

“Kunzman is an extremely reliable defender.  We’re going to have to make some big adjustments to fill his void,” said Coach Anderson.  

Bryson Hamilton was back in the goal keeper’s position,  along with six stitches from the prior contest with Iowa Falls.  Hamilton finished with four saves.