The Tell City boys soccer team faced a tough conference matchup on Tuesday, falling to Southridge with a final score of 2-0.
The match started evenly, with both teams creating opportunities but struggling to find the back of the net. The deadlock was broken with 19:32 left in the first half when Southridge’s Bryan Cruz managed to get past Tell City’s defense and score, giving the Raiders a 1-0 lead.
Tell City had several chances to equalize but couldn’t capitalize. One notable opportunity came when Zaiden Tribbie was fouled inside the box, earning a penalty shot. However, his attempt hit the top of the goal post and went out of bounds, leaving Tell City still trailing.
In the second half, Southridge extended their lead with another goal from Cruz, which turned out to be the final score of the match.
Tell City head coach Taylor LaGrange reflected on the game, praising his team’s hard work and effort. He noted that the Marksmen controlled possession for much of the game but were unable to convert their chances.
“Our team works really hard in training and in the match,” LaGrange said. “We are scrappy, grind, love to run, and tonight we had so many chances. We had a ton of possession. To me, it was a 50-50 game, but they converted their chances, and we didn’t.”
LaGrange described the match as one where the team was fully engaged until the final whistle, comparing it to their recent 2-1 overtime loss to Forest Park.
“We were in it from the first whistle to the last,” LaGrange added. “Our guys were focused and dialed in. I am proud of our effort. Just like against Forest Park, we were a bit unlucky not to get the finish we needed. The boys are doing what we ask of them.”
To improve their finishing in future matches, LaGrange emphasized the importance of spacing and movement.
“It’s about finding the space, creating the space, moving, passing, and making runs,” he explained. “Even if you’re not receiving the ball, moving without it is crucial to force the defense to move. That will create openings and help us get back to scoring.”
Looking ahead, LaGrange acknowledged the challenges posed by strong opponents like Forest Park and Southridge but remained optimistic about Tell City’s progress.
“We knew the Forest Park and Southridge games would be tough,” LaGrange said. “Forest Park was the state runner-up last year, and Southridge is a growing soccer program. We hung right with them. We feel the momentum in the club and will keep working hard.”
Tell City will look to build on their effort as they continue their season, aiming to convert their hard work into positive results on the scoreboard.
