The Kent Denver boys soccer team achieved the improbable by effectively putting the clamps on the high-flying offense of Colorado Springs Christian.
Yet the Sun Devils were unable to capitalize on their plentiful chances, all but assuring they eventually would hear the Lions roar.
Despite an impressive defensive effort, Kent Denver, the third-ranked team in Class 3A, could not quite keep its net clean for the entire 80 minutes, finally surrendering a goal to Matthew Egeler with 2:13 remaining that lifted No. 1 Colorado Springs Christian to a 1-0 victory Thursday at Kent.
The Lions (3-0) had scored 12 goals in their first two games against solid teams, Class 5A Pine Creek and No. 7 Peak to Peak, but were kept at bay by Kent’s strong back line and the goalkeeping of Sun Devils senior Brendan Allen.
“I think we came in a little lethargic. We had a little lead in our feet,” said CSC coach Tim Egeler, the uncle of the match’s hero. “I think we were impatient, especially in the first half. We told them at the half to be more patient and let the plays come to them. All it takes is one break to win a game like this. Kent is a very, very good defensive team.”
Matthew Egeler’s winner occurred after the Sun Devils were unable to clear a crossing pass by the Lions’ Nick Seifert. Egeler collected the loose ball in the middle of the box and tucked a shot past Allen into the right corner of the net.
“I saw the ball go up in the air, and I knew it was my chance,” Matthew Egeler said. “Time sort of slowed down, and I made sure to hit it clear.”
Although Kent coach Arty Smith said it was not an issue, fatigue may have plagued the Sun Devils after a hard-fought win over Lutheran-Parker on Wednesday. Their top offensive weapon, Jesus Gonzalez, missed most of the final 24 minutes because of leg cramps.
C.S. Christian 0 1 — 1
Kent Denver 0 0 — 0
Goal — M. Egeler (unassisted) 78th minute.
Shots on goal — C.S. Christian 0-3 — 3; Kent Denver 3-0 — 3. Saves — C.S. Christian (Baker) 3; Kent Denver (Allen) 2. Corner kicks — C.S. Christian 4-1 — 5; Kent Denver 1-3 — 4. Fouls — C.S. Christian 5-4 — 9; Kent Denver 3-5 — 8. Offside — C.S. Christian 2-1 — 3; Kent Denver 2-1 — 3.
