Soccer team gets first win

MARION --

Sikeston's soccer team picked up its first win of the season on Tuesday, beating Marion, Ill., 3-1.

The Bulldogs tied the same team over the weekend in the Notre Dame Tournament.

"We had a 2-0 lead on them (Saturday) and let it slip away in the last few minutes," said Sikeston coach Derrick Long. "We had a little redemption against them today. Since I've been coaching, it's the first time we've beaten them at their place. It feels good to get our first."

Ryan Beard gave Sikeston a 1-0 lead with a goal at the 33 minute mark. Blake Taylor provided the assist. It was the only goal scored in the first half.

In the second half, Blake Taylor scored on an assist from J.R. Bizzell at 47 minutes, then Bizzell scored on a Richard Landers assist at 72 minutes.

"Our three starting forwards each got a goal," said Long. "Blake Taylor, a freshman, had a big game. He's had about five or six chances in the first few games that could've gone in for him. He finally got that first goal, and I think it's going to help his confidence a little."

Marion's only goal came at 78 minutes as Robert Bradley scored unassisted.

Sikeston finished the match with 17 shots, and keeper Jason Deere had 16 saves.

"He has been unbelievable this year," said Long. "With him, we just ask for two or three goals. He may let one in, but not more than that unless we're playing a top-caliber team."

Marion had 17 shots on goal and their keeper recorded 14 saves. Sikeston (1-2-1) will play host to Kennett today for a 4 p.m. match.

"We had a real big game in the midfield," said Long. "E.C. Atchison and Brad Deere both controlled the midfield and gave our forwards the opportunity to put a few in."

In Tuesday's junior varsity match, Sikeston defeated Marion 2-1.

Michael Ragsdale scored on an assist from Adam Gillean, and Cody Black scored on an assist from Andrew Box.

Keeper Cody Cooper recorded 13 saves in the win.