A pair of early goals proved to be more than enough for the Ankeny Centennial girls’ soccer team.
The fifth-ranked Jaguars scored twice in the first 15 minutes and never allowed a shot on goal in a 2-0 victory over No. 14 Iowa City West in a non-conference game on Friday at Centennial.
“I thought tonight was a show of team strength,” said Centennial coach Chris Allen. “We kept possession of the ball for the better part of the game, and when we would lose it our transition was sharp.”
Mady Postma scored the game-winner in the 11th minute. She was assisted by Ava Martin.
About 3 minutes later, Martin connected for her team-leading fourth goal of the season. Avery Lewis picked up the assist.
“Ava scored on an absolutely beautiful header on a fantastic cross from Avery,” Allen said.
Centennial was unable to find the net again, but the Jaguars controlled the game with their possession and a stifling defensive effort.
“Maddison Balashaitis and Evie Boyle did an excellent job of staying organized defensively and composed on the ball, and their leadership was on display throughout the match,” Allen said.
Goalkeepers Madeline Stribe and Rylee Litchfield each played a half for the Jaguars. Balashaitis called it a team effort.
“I am proud of how we played together,” she said. “We challenged ourselves to play simple and keep the ball, and I think we did really well. I’m proud of both goalies combining for the shutout. I also think Avery’s assist to Ava was also something to be proud of–it’s another thing we have been working on, and Ava’s finish was amazing! This game definitely highlighted our growth, which is really amazing and rewarding to see.”
Centennial improved to 5-1 on the season. West dropped to 3-3 and is now 1-2 against the CIML Conference, having earlier lost to Southeast Polk before beating Urbandale.
“It was a good team win with everyone contributing,” Balashaitis said. “It was a new game that posed new challenges, and I think everyone adapted to them well and found a way to play. Everyone definitely got better!”
The Jaguars will play a conference game at No. 2 Valley on Tuesday. The Tigers are 1-1 in the league and 5-1 overall.
