Calhoun controls game in win vs. GC
Jackets use possession, defense to earn victory
The Calhoun boys soccer team showcased impressive amounts of agility and flair on both sides of the field in a 2-0 victory against the cross-town rival Gordon Central Warriors on Thursday.
The Yellow Jackets (3-2) were in control early in the first half, easily keeping possession of the ball in its attacking third of the field and creating quality chances that resulted in many set pieces and near-misses.
Calhoun’s tenacious style paid off in the 11th minute when senior forward Jorge Aranda intercepted an errant pass near midfield and reversed field quickly to create a breakaway opportunity. Aranda took advantage of the two-on-one situation against the goalkeeper by tapping the ball to open forward Daniel Isep, who guided the ball into the right corner of the net to give the Jackets a 1-0 advantage.
“I was proud of the guys,” Calhoun head coach Matt Rice said. “We have been working really hard on maintaining possession and creating quality chances.”
“I thought we improved in those areas during the game. Gordon Central is a good team with an exceptional goalkeeper, and they were able to keep us from converting many of the chances.”
The Warriors (0-2-1) emerged from halftime more aggressive, pushing the ball down the sidelines in the second half and creating opportunities with quick counter-attacks. However, Calhoun’s defensive backs prevented Gordon Central from converting any of its quality chances.
The Jackets stellar defensive performance included a clean sheet from keeper Eduardo Fajardo. Fajardo displayed impressive athleticism during a handful of highlight-worthy saves as the last line of defense for Calhoun, picking up his second shutout of the season.
“We pride ourselves on team defense, with all 11 players working together to keep the other team from scoring,” Rice said. “Their cohesiveness improved a lot as the game went on. We still have several things we have to improve upon, but to keep a shutout against some very talented goal scorers is a big accomplishment.”
Calhoun tacked on another goal in the game’s closing minutes off the foot of Aranda. As the senior forward cut his way with the ball into scoring range in the 75th minute, the Gordon Central defenders tripped Aranda resulting in a free kick near the top of the penalty box. Aranda promptly buried the set piece underneath the crossbar to secure a brace and a 2-0 victory for the Jackets.
“Jorge is emerging as a leader on our team,” Rice said. “He’s finding ways to score, but more importantly he’s helping facilitate the offense. He’s very talented and I look forward to watching our team grow together.”
The Jackets were back home on Tuesday to host LaFayette. Gordon Central visits Chattooga on Tuesday. (For details on those games, see Saturday’s Calhoun Times.) Calhoun hosts Heritage on Friday at 7 p.m. Gordon Central hosts Rockmart on Friday at 8 p.m.