LocalSportsJournal.com
Grandville Calvin Christian continues to be a road block for the Western Michigan Christian’s girls soccer team in the Division 4 postseason.
The Squires, the three-time defending state champions, defeated the Warriors for the fourth-straight time in the playoffs. This time, on Wednesday, it was a 2-1 final in the regional semifinals at Reeths-Puffer High School.
Alexys Riksen makes the break to score for Western Michigan Christian. Photo/Randy Riksen
Calvin Christian advances to face Leland in Saturday’s regional championship, while WMC sees its season end with a 12-5-3 record.
“(Calvin Christian) played like champions and deserved to win the game, but this was just a cruel loss,” said WMC Coach David Hulings. “Calvin scored in the first four minutes and the last four minutes. They only way they beat us is two upper 90 shots.
“They are the reigning champions and did it again. Not much more to say.”Facing a 1-0 deficit at halftime, WMC tied the contest on a goal from Alexys Riksen 12 minutes into the second half.
Riksen controlled a long punt from goalkeeper Lindsey Johnson and worked her creative magic to find the back of the net.
“Even though we gave away the first 30 minutes playing scared and timid, we were finally get some great spark and confidence after a couple of great attacks with Lauren Myers and Jessica Kinnucan’s hard work,” said Hulings.
“After settling down after that, I think we outplayed them in every aspect of the game. But they are the best and keep playing and we are going home.”
Hulings’ squad will have to replace six seniors from this year’s squad, including Riksen and Johnson, but the veteran coach is optimistic with the returning talent.
“They won’t get a banner but they showed they deserved one,” he said. “We only know how to keep working and that is what we will do.”
