IMSA Titans turns tables on Streamwood Sabres

Early on, Streamwood looked to have the advantage over Illinois Math & Science Academy. The Sabres controlled the ball, got numerous scoring chances, and led 1-0 at halftime. But the Titans turned the tables in the second half and wound up with a 2-1 nonconference girls soccer victory at Millennium Field Monday.

Judy Hooymans scored twice for IMSA (1-3), including the game-winner on a 40-yard free kick in the 54th minute.

Alanah Thompson's goal in the 35th minute gave Streamwood the halftime lead. Kristin Sogge assisted.

Streamwood had chances to take control early, but couldn't finish.

"We've just got to have the aggressiveness to put the ball in the net," said Streamwood coach Matt Polovin. "Near the 6-yard box, we hold back. Instead of holding back, you need to push it forward. You've got to put the ball in."

The tone was set for the Sabres (0-3) in the opening minute. Thompson got a shot from point-blank range, but hit the crossbar. Minutes later, Thompson came in on a breakaway, but IMSA goalkeeper Renait O'Connor got out to break it up. Thompson also put a corner kick on goal. The ball squirted out of O'Connor's hands, but a rebound attempt missed by inches.

Meanwhile, Sabres' keeper Brianna Roppo was barely tested in the first half, with the Titans putting just one shot on goal.

Everything changed after halftime when Hooymans took a nice cross and slammed it home from close range.

Ten minutes later, Hooymans lined up a free kick from about 40 yards out. She fired a line drive into the upper right side of the net, putting the Titans ahead to stay.

The Sabres pushed up late trying to get the tying score. Sara Kemp appeared to have a wide-open shot from close range late in the game, but defender Brittany Koclowski closed the gap and deflected the shot wide.

"That was a game we definitely should have won," said Polovin. "But in soccer, shoulda isn't going to get you far."