Madrid’s goal lifts Grayslake Central

Johnny Madrid made his high school varsity soccer debut a memorable one.

The freshman scored the game’s only goal, as Grayslake Central opened its season with a 1-0 win over host Vernon Hills in an opening-round game of the Cougar Classic on Tuesday.

Sophomore Alex Stickler assisted Madrid, while senior Kevin Anderson (2 saves) and junior Jason Koziol (5 saves) combined on the shutout for Grayslake Central.

“We played an outstanding first half of soccer,” Rams coach Mike McCaulou said. “Our shape was very good, which allowed for great possession. We need to clean up some things, but for the first game, I am very pleased with the effort from our boys.”

Grayslake Central resumes the tournament Thursday with a 4:30 p.m. start against Zion-Benton on Vernon Hills’ west field, adjacent to the stadium.

Zion-Benton 3, Grayslake North 2: At Vernon Hills, the Zee-Bees scored with about three minutes left to snap a 2-2 tie and pull out the first-round match.

Junior Carson Klarck and senior Daniel Bazan each had a goal and an assist for Grayslake North.

“A great game, especially for it being the first game of the season,” Knights coach Adam DeCaluwe said. “I thought the boys looked good, fought hard and have a lot to be proud of as well as build on for the remainder of the season.”

DeCaluwe noted the strong performances of juniors Michael Rohrer, Clark and Arnaud Laroche-Bataille and sophomore Dre Thedorf.

Grayslake North takes on host Vernon Hills at 4:30 p.m. Thursday in Rust-Oleum Field.

Lakes 2, Lake Forest 1: Jon Stanley and Trevor Ray scored for the Eagles in their season opener, which was part of the Lake Forest Shootout.

Brian Zgonjanin and Tom Langbein had assists for Lakes, while Eagles keeper Roberto Tre Re made 10 saves.

Lakes resumes the tournament Thursday against Highland Park.

Woodstock 4, Wauconda 1: Irving Ramirez scored the Bulldogs’ lone goal, off an assist from Brandon Morales.

Keeper Christian Capia made 7 saves for Wauconda (0-2).