In the first half of Tuesday’s non-conference game at Dowling Catholic, the Ankeny Centennial boys’ soccer team looked a lot like the same squad that dropped a 3-1 decision to Waukee Northwest on Friday.
The fifth-ranked Jaguars were probably fortunate to be tied, 1-1, at the half.
“It was a continuation of not great soccer from the Northwest game,” said Centennial coach Brian Duax.
In the second half, however, Centennial tacked on a pair of goals to post a 3-1 victory in its regular-season finale. Andrew Heckenlaible scored off a corner kick by Ty Duax to put the Jaguars ahead, then Rashidi Ishibwami later drew a penalty kick and Duax converted it to produce the final margin.
“We were a completely different team in the second half,” Duax said. “We were much better. We shared the ball and created chances.”
Heckenlaible also scored Centennial’s first goal off an assist from Duax. The two sophomores finished the regular season with identical stats–13 goals and 18 assists.
The Jaguars improved to 13-3 overall. No. 13 Dowling dropped to 10-7.
Centennial will host Southeast Polk or Indianola in a Class 3A substate semifinal on Monday.
“We’re ready for the second season. Every team is 0-0,” Duax said. “You lose and you go home! Hopefully, the Jungle will be loud and proud come Monday night at 6:30.”