The OPRF soccer team erased a 3-1 deficit to finish with a 3-3 tie against East Aurora in the consolation bracket of the Pepsi Showdown on Saturday.
Steve Golz, Ryan Huettel and Dave Leitson all scored for the Huskies (6-1-1.), who had a few players missing due to ACT testing.
In the second round of the tournament on Thursday, OPRF had its early season win-streak halted at six games with a 1-0 loss to St. Charles North. The North Stars scored with 15 minutes remaining in the game. The Huskies launched 10 shots at goalkeeper Garett Creasor, but none found the net. Huskies keeper Granger Sheppard held off eight shots on goal.
“I was proud of our effort and I think it was a clear indicator to the boys that we are a top 10 team,” said OPRF head coach Paul Wright. “We were right there with them and competed.”
The loss came on the heels of OPRF landing at the No. 1 spot in the Chicago Tribune’s state ranking, as well as 14th on the National Soccer Coaches Association of America’s regional ranking.
“What we need to work on is that finishing touch,” said Wright. “We do not have that knack to rip a shot but rather look for the perfect pass and perfect opportunity. You can’t wait for all the stars to line up. Sometimes you have to rip it when a small seam is open.”
The Huskies kicked off the Pepsi tournament with a 2-1 win over Wheaton Academy. The team outshot Wheaton 13-4. Huettel and Golz each had goals with assists by Danny Pasternak and Marcus Machado.
“I feel confident saying we belong in the top 10 after seeing and competing with some of the best teams out there,” said Wright.
OPRF takes on St. Joseph on Saturday (8 a.m.) on the East Field at the Lyons Soccer Complex.