Second-half mistakes leave Ozaukee out in cold against Oostburg in soccer opener

The Ozaukee girls’ soccer team knew it would need a sustained effort to win its season opener Monday against defending Central Lakeshore Conference champion Oostburg.

Although the host Warriors trailed by only 1-0 at halftime, they couldn’t keep pace late in the second period on the way to a 4-1 defeat.

“We need to be physically and mentally strong to close out games,” Ozaukee coach Eric Liebergen said. “Our lack of depth may have contributed to our letdown late in the game.”

The contest was a rematch between the conference’s top two teams last season, when Oostburg defeated Ozaukee in a regular-season finale to take the title.

On Monday, the Flying Dutchmen struck first on a goal by Emily TeBeest and never trailed.

The margin grew to 2-0 in the second half on a goal by Melissa Schleicher before the Warriors awakened offensively.

Midfielder Abbey Beck halved her team’s deficit by scoring on a follow-up shot.

“Abbey did a nice job of playing wide and keeping her composure on the finish,” Liebergen said.

However, Oostburg regained control by maintaining pressure that produced two insurance scores.

“We gave up a few late goals, which is disappointing, but the reality is we saw some positives that we can build off of,” Liebergen said.

“It’s tough opening the season with a strong opponent like Oostburg. We will correct mistakes and have something to prove in our rematch.”

Liebergen singled out forward Katie Bares, midfielder Jeanette Lapinski and defender Mari Scalone for steady performances, as well as goalkeeper Amanda Lallensack for a strong effort in her first varsity start.

“Amanda played the right angles and showed promise,” he said.

The Warriors will continue conference play with 4:30 p.m. games at Sheboygan Christian on Thursday and at home against Random Lake on April 20.

Comments (0)

Subscribe to this comment's feed