By Casey Castle
Register Sports Writer
RICHMOND —
The Model Laboratory boys soccer team got a goal in each half on its way to a 2-0 win over visiting South Laurel Wednesday.
The Patriots (4-2-1) had to overcome a size deficit to earn the win over the Cardinals (6-1-1).
“We had a real problem today — they were bigger than we were,” Model coach Steve Savage said. “They were bodying us off the ball a lot.”
Still, the Patriots were able to push one through the South Laurel defense when Josh Arnwine created a shot and scored. At the half, Savage and the Patriots made an adjustment that put all the pressure on the Cardinals.
“We really looked better in the second half,” Savage said.
The Patriots had several chances in the second half and kept the ball pinned on the South Laurel end of the field. The Cardinals threatened only a handful of times.
Finally, the Patriots broke through on one of their many chances to score the second goal of the game. Hunter Conner scored off an Arnwine assist with 6:43 left to play.
The Patriots control possession easily through most of the second half.
“I think it was because we were playing quicker in the second half,” Savage said. “It started in the alumni game. The alumni were quicker than us. These guys picked up the pace. I thought it made for a much better game for us.”
Turner Curtis was credited with the shutout. It was the sophomore’s fourth of the year.
The loss was the first of the season for the Cardinals, who had started the season with six-straight wins. The win was the third-straight for the Patriots this season and the 199th for the program, Savage said.
Model looks for its 200th win Tuesday when Holy Cross (2-3-1) comes to town.
