Saranac Lake- After falling behind 2-0 in the first half, the North Country Saints women's soccer team rallied in the second, but fell just short in a 2-1 loss to #10 Herkimer.
Herkimer tallied twice in the first half just two minutes apart. Lydia Reimer scored on a direct kick and added the game-winner on a break through inside the 18.
"We took a bad penalty to set up their free kick," said Head Coach Kent Egglefield. "We cannot afford to do that against teams that talented."
After applying heavy pressure throughout the second half, the Saints finally broke through when KK Mader scored her first career goal on a scramble off a corner kick with just under 15:00 to play. Adelisa Ahmemulic was credited with the assist.
"I am so happy for KK." added Egglefield. "She works hard and she was rewarded today. Not many kids can say they scored their first career goal aginst a nationally ranked team."
Despite applying even more pressure, the Saints were unable to get the game tying goal as the game ended 2-1
"We have come very far and i am very proud of this team," said Egglefield. "The defense, the midfield, the forwards... everyone played with heart from start to end. The girls have worked hard to turn our season around and today I think we finally realized what we can be."
Sam Hayes was again steller in net turning away eight shots by the visitors. The Saints defense, consisting of Aurianna Lastowski, Riley Paschke, and Nattalya Browning, turned in another great performance with all three standing out for the Saints.
The Saints are at home this Wednesday to take on Fulton-Montgomery on Senior Night. Game-time is 1:00pm.
GOAT of the Game
Our GOAT of the Game against Herkimer was freshman defender Nattalya Browning. Nat was excellent defensively and did an oustanding job winning 50-50 balls. Her speed allowed her to join the attack and still track back defensively. She was everywhere on the field and played with a lot of passion. Nat is also our first two time GOAT this season. Congrats Nat! We're all proud of you!
