SHS soccer falls 6-0 to ND

CAPE GIRARDEAU -- After giving up five goals in the first half of Wednesday's match against Notre Dame, Sikeston's soccer team turned up its defensive intensity in the second half, holding the local power to just one goal.

Considering the opponent, head coach Derrick Long was satisfied with his team's performance in the 6-0 loss.

"It was probably one of the better games we've played all year," said Long. "Our defense was really bad yesterday, and I challenged them to put it up a notch today. I was pretty happy with our effort."

Sikeston played the game without Keisha Presley, who was out with the flu.

Notre Dame's Emily Essner scored the first goal for Notre Dame at the nine minute mark, off an assist from Sarah Berkbigler.

Sierra Ellis scored the next two goals at 16 minutes and 28 minutes to make it 3-0.

Allison Essner hit the net at 32 minutes off an assist from Brittney Little, then Christen Boos scored at 38 minutes off a Megan Holloway assist to make it 5-0 at halftime.

In the second half, Jessie Westrich scored the game's final goal at 79 minutes.

Notre Dame had 18 shots on goal to Sikeston's 7. Keeper Audra Wooley had seven saves while Notre Dame keeper Katie Palmer finished with seven.

"They're a great team," said Long. "They've got just one loss all year. Holding them to just one goal in the second half is pretty good on our part."

Sikeston (1-9) will host Marion today at 4 p.m.

In Wednesday's junior varsity action, Notre Dame defeated Sikeston 2-0 with goals from Mattie Neff and Allison Toole. Notre Dame had 15 shots on goal while Sikeston had 7.

Keeper Whitney Wallace finished with nine saves. Also, in Tuesday's junior varsity match against Perryville, Sikeston lost 1-0. The score was incorrect in Wednesday's paper.