Generals, Blazers play to tie - Sports

QUICKSBURG — Even though Stonewall Jackson's nondistrict boys soccer contest against Spotswood ended in a 2-2 overtime tie on Friday, the game had its benefits.

The Generals gained some much needed confidence after a disappointing 5-4 loss at Wilson Memorial on Tuesday, and they were able to prepare for an important upcoming Shenandoah District match at Riverheads on Monday.

"We play every game to win," Stonewall coach Nate Hissong said. "If we take the approach that we don't have to play hard because it's a nondistrict game, that mentality is going to kill us when we get to our district matches. I'm not disappointed with a tie, I think it's a tie against a good, quality team."

Before the fans had settled into their seats, the Generals scored the first goal. Thirty seconds into the match, Armando Moreno-Paniagua sent a crossing pass into the goal box. Caleb Golladay banged a one-timer off the crossbar, but Will Comarovschi scored on a header.

The Trail Blazers (6-6-2) hardly threatened offensively in the first half, but tallied on their best chance. In the 28th minute, Todd Sager lofted a 25-yard shot over the leaping keeper Hayden Miller.

It remained 1-1 until the 64th minute, when Stonewall took the lead. Comarovschi, near the end line, made a fine cross to Golladay, who punched it past Spotswood keeper Mike Bullis.

The Generals seemed poised for the victory as the Blazers hurriedly worked for the equalizer. With just over six minutes remaining, Spotswood was awarded a free kick from 30 yards away. Phillip Yoder put a hard shot on goal that Miller blocked but couldn't control. Chris Keller gathered the rebound and dumped it in the net to tie the game.

Stonewall (10-2-1) had the better chances in overtime. In the fourth minute, Patrick Bain had a chance in the box, but Bullis made a diving stop. With one minute to play in the extra session, Comarovschi sailed a 20-yarder just over the crossbar.

While Hissong liked the overall play by his squad, losing the lead late was bothersome.

"I am disappointed about losing the lead after committing a foul," he said. "That's a little bit discouraging because undisciplined play toward the end of the match cost us a win tonight."

Late fouls have stung the Generals before. In both losses to Wilson, fouls in the final minute set up game-winning goals.

Stonewall's focus now shifts to Riverheads. The Generals hold a one-half game lead over the Gladiators for second place in the district.

"That's a big one," Hissong said. "We're not going to be able to win our district, but our goal is to position ourselves for the district tournament. What that means is get the win on Monday and have home field for the first round of the tournament."

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