Ravens claim 5-1 victory over the Cobras of Sigourney Keota

The Hillcrest Ravens overcame strong winds and a good opponent to claim a 5-1 win over the Sigourney Keota Cobras. The Ravens opened the scoring ten minutes into the match off a corner kick as Gabe Bruns headed the ball to Grant Bender. From 25 yards out Bender lofted a shot at goal, taking advantage of the wind and making it difficult for the goalie to judge the flight of the ball. Hillcrest added to their lead when Jorge Canchola found Diego Ramos on a nice through ball. Ramos made the most of his opportunity and put the ball past the goalie. 

Sigourney Keota scored next when the Ravens had difficulty clearing the ball in the windy conditions allowing them a clear shot at goal for the 2-1 halftime score.

In the second half the Ravens went into the wind and the Cobras began playing with a higher defensive line. It took some time to adjust but slowly Hillcrest began to create opportunities. Jorge Canchola took advantage and broke through for a run at goal where the official called a penalty in the box on Sigourney-Keota. Canchola calmly sent his kick past the goalie to make the score 3-1. Next to find the net was Jesse Blossom. Taking advantage of a poor clearance, Blossom stepped through two defenders, claimed the ball and sent it by the goalie. Micah Gerber finished the scoring with less than a minute in the match on an assist from Canchola. 

Defensively, the backline of Grant Bender, Mason Bender, Andrew Starr and Seth Ours played well especially given the windy conditions. Aiden Krabill recorded three saves in goal. 

Hillcrest 5, SK 1

Hillcrest moves to 2-2 overall and remains 1-0 in conference play.

Hillcrest focuses on conference play facing defending state champion Burlington Notre Dame, Monday in West Burlington, then hosting Central Lee Thursday and Danville, Friday.