Local Sports Journal

The Western Michigan Christian girls soccer improved to 11-1-1 overall and 8-0 in the River Valley Conference following Thursday’s 8-1 victory over Tri-Unity Christian.

With the victory, the Warriors finish as the outright conference champions.

“This was a good way to finish the conference,” said Christian head coach David Hulings. “We started off a little rusty and shaky, somehow losing our focus and quick play. It was nice to get that corrected and see the girls respond to coaching the way they did.”

The Warriors were relentless, sending a total of 24 shots in Tri-Unity goalkeeper Rachel Nellis’ direction.

Nellis finished with five saves and allowed the hook all eight goals.

WMC’s Alexys Riksen netted three goals on 10 shots and an assist, while Brea Frein got a lot of attention for her two goals on three shots and one assist.

“Brea Frin played so well up top and earned a lot of respect from players and coaches,” said Hulings. “When the starters were not in the game, the reserve players really picked up their play as well in the second half.”

Jessica Hinnucan, Chista Houskamp, and Maria Michael all had single goals in the win, with Hunnucan and Ellie Gilson adding assists as well.

Jacquelyn Martin scored Tri-Unity’s lone goal.

The Warriors’ Lindsey Johnson finished with four saves and the victory in goal.

Now that the conference title is in the bag, the Warriors will be spending most of the weekend on activities decidedly not soccer related.

“We have some great games next week,” said Hulings, “and are getting ready for the tourney. Next stop is our trip to Chicago to pack meals for Third World countries this weekend and a great day on Sunday to watch MLS soccer.”

The Warriors will catch the Chicago Fire take on Sporting KC Sunday afternoon.