One goal gives Ringgold win, section lead
BELLE VERNON – On paper, the Belle Vernon had the advantage over Ringgold in their Section 3-AAA high school boys soccer match Tuesday night.
After all, Belle Vernon had the experience advantage as Ringgold has only one senior on its roster whereas the Leopards have serval seniors with multiple years of starting experience.
However, Ringgold went to James Weir Stadium and left a 1-0 winner.
“This was a big win and I am proud of team,” said Ringgold coach Steve Persaud. “We played great defense and only needed the one goal tonight.”
The Leopards (3-2, 5-3) controlled most of the play but could not get a shot past Ringgold goalkeeper Travis Yahnite and Belle Vernon coach John Kerekes talked about his team’s chances.
“In games like this, one mistake costs you and when you make the mistake, the other team can dictate what happens,” he said. “They were able to sit in and defend more.
“We will be looking forward to see them in a few weeks.”
Belle Vernon officially had nine shots to Ringgold’s two.
Ringgold (3-0, 4-2), which moved into sole possession of first place in the section, scored the only goal it would need at the 26:31 mark of the first half when sophomore Eli Schoedel beat goalkeeper Tommy Rodriguez off of a pass from junior Christian Egan.
When asked if Ringgold game-planned for Belle Vernon’s high-scoring Marcello Apodiakis, Persaud did not hesitate to answer.
“He is quick, but all it takes is a touch of the ball and we limited his shots,” he said of Apodiakis’ five shots, with only one being a solid shot.
Ringgold returns to section play tonight as it is at Hiller Field for a game against Trinity. Belle Vernon travels to Albert Gallatin Thursday night for a section match.
When asked if he was worried about his team having a letdown tonight after such a huge win Tuesday, Persaud deferred to Egan.
“We will keep the emotion going and keep it at a high standard,” the junior said. “We will keep rolling and not let the engine die.
“Our goal is the WPIAL championship.”