KUA battles in 9-6 loss to Andover
The Wildcats never let down in a close battle against Andover. In the first quarter, the two teams exchanged leads twice. Drew Simoneau started the scoring less than two minutes into the game on a solo effort. Andover responded with the next two goals but then KUA’s CJ Frates, off a Sam Wyskiel feed, evened the score and, moments later, Eric Wollrath scored to give the Wildcats a brief 3-2 lead. With only 14 seconds remaining, Andover managed their 3rd goal to tie the score.
The pace and intensity continued in the second quarter. With KUA’s defensive unit holding their ground against Andover’s attack, the Wildcats were able to gain possession of the ball and create opportunities at the other end. Andrew Kelly marked Andover’s primary threat, forcing him back behind the KUA net on each possession. Miles Hancock was equally tough on his man, as was Dennis Kravchenko. KUA’s defensive unit killed an early 2 minute penalty to raise the home team’s spirits and resolve. Tim McNair, in goal for the Wildcats, made numerous point blank stops and led the defense with his vocal, intense presence. Connor Bailey, Spencer King, Tommy O’brien, and Patrick Lynch played their positions skillfully, giving very little time and few feeding opportunities to the visitors. Alex Skinner was a key addition to the KUA defense, winning ground balls and adding speed and strength to the cadre of KUA midfield defenders.
In the second quarter, Andover struck first to regain the lead but then the Wildcats stormed back with two quick tallies by Frates, the first a solo effort and the second off a feed from Chris Morse. KUA could not hold the lead, however, and Andover scored to tie the score and send both teams into the half with the score deadlocked at 5-5.
In the third quarter, again, Andover struck first. The Wildcats responded again to tie the score a six apiece. Andover, then, managed two more goals, while the Wildcat’s shooting opportunities were deflected by stray Andover defensive poles. Going into the quarter, the visitors held an 8-6 lead. Andover managed an insurance goal with 8 minutes remaining and, despite forcing numerous turnovers and regaining possession, the Wildcat offense could not find the back of the net.
KUA (3-8) hosts league leading Brewster Academy at home on Wednesday.
