KUA Skill And Determination Too Much For New Hampton

Summertime returned to the Hilltop today. Sweaters returned to the closets of autumns past and passed. The sun beat down on players and fans alike, as, under 80 degree skies, the Wildcats took on a depleted but optimistic New Hampton side. Today was KUA's day. With four different players notching goals - including season's first tallies by senior Aly Young and freshman Cait Beneat - KUA overwhelmed New Hampton with their ever-deepening fitness levels and acumen for the game. On this day the 'Cats passed adroitly, switching the point of attack and registering over 20 shots on a game but beleaguered NH Goalkeeper. With New Hampton and KUA both playing short-handed (initially with 10, and in the 2nd half with 9 players), there was space to roam and vast channels in which to find teammates. This dynamic favored a KUA team that has been focusing much of its attention upon the myriad elements of possession soccer. While New Hampton sought to attack directly on the counter, KUA built the attack with patience and skill. This was the Wildcats' best game of the young campaign, with solid contributions from stars and neophytes alike. Of particular note today were the efforts of senior sweeper Lexi Uryase and freshman stopper Maddie Long. Agaionst a team that looked to counter and that sported several solid athletes in the middle and up top, Long and Uryase slowed the New Hampton attack and never allowed the gilrs from the I93 corridor a chance to build any momentum. Long is a relative newcomer to the game. An incipient ice hockey star and goalie, Maddie comes to soccer with an abundance of athletic ability and a willingness to support her team through tireless effort and courageous play. On a side replete with experienced players, Maddie Long is fast becoming an invaluable contributor and valued teammate. Also worthy of note today was the tireless and spirited effort of sophomore Brittany Kainen. Kainen plays virtually every position on the field, and as the season enters the midway mark she is really beginning to hit her stride. Today Kainen's efforts as a right back kept any thoughts of attack by the New Hampton left middie at bay. Brittany also registered several productive attacks on goal and was instrumental in KUA maintaining the lead during a mid second half New Hampton push. Congratulations to the girls from the Hilltop! Next up, High Mowing.