Big W for the 'Cats

On Saturday on Pope, there was a feeling in the air, a confidence on the bench and a desire that couldn't be matched as the team took the field for warmups. The attention to detail let everyone know that the game was already decided. KUA stared strong, applying pressure, passing around the opposition and creating chances on offense putting Ethel Walker's players on their heels from the beginning. Just 5 minutes in, Mallory Clark notched what would be the winning goal to put the 'Cats ahead 1-0. With great defending not allowing Stella Kozak to be under continuous pressure, she was able to make the saves necessary to keep the lead into the 2nd quarter. Again just 5 minutes in, KUA struck again, this time Ariana Ftorek scored her 1st of the game to extend the lead to 2-0. The middle of the field played exceptionally well, with Ainsley Lonczak, Lulu Leppard and Michaela Cokinos creating turnovers and starting the transition game to keep the pressure on the opposition, giving them no time to recover and catch their breath. With a deeper bench and more players in and out of the game, KUA continued to impose their will as the game progressed. After the half KUA came out quick again. The ball remained in the offensive half for until Ariana Ftorek scored her second of the night. There was a bit of a let down with a 3 goal cushion and Stella Kozak was tested, and she passed with flying colors. Turning away all of the shots that she faced on her way to yet another shutout, her poise in the net would never let on that she is new to the position. Going into the 4th, there was a renewed focus and drive to put the game away. With 8:36 left, Ariana Ftorek did just that, she netted her 3rd for the hat trick and sealed the win for KUA. It was a great team effort, and that is just what it will take to keep this going on Wednesday when KUA travels to Wolfeboro to take on Brewster Academy.