Boys soccer: Schaumburg blanks WW South
Arnav Karnik and Jared Schoo scored while Simon Niku was involved in both goals and along with an airtight defense, host Schaumburg beat Wheaton-Warrenville South 2-0 Tuesday night in nonconference boys soccer action Tuesday night at Gary Scholz Field.
Karnik's opener would be all the home side would need on this beautiful fall night, but it was a remarkable strike from Schoo at 57 minutes that would ensure the Saxons' (2-1-0) second straight victory after overwhelming Proviso West (7-0) last week.
"This was a good win for us. We played well on both sides of the ball, and with Sam (Bogner) keeping us organized in the back, our defense was able to help us control the game," said Schoo, a four-year starter.
"We lost to a good Maine South game in our season opener, but tonight the effort and work rate was very good and if we can continue to play at this level, we'll be a tough opponent for everyone," added Saxons coach Eric Sorby.
The visiting Tigers (0-1-1) struggled through the first half in possession, and with their 4-2-3-1 formation, but for tri-captain Nick McGrath and South coach Guy Callipari, games played, training and a little patience will help the club turn the corner.
"One of the challenges to playing with just one up top in this formation is connecting with that player and putting that striker in a position to score and create," began McGrath. "We also need to play more games together to help us sort things out, and to develop some chemistry so for now, it's important for us to continue to work hard and stay positive."
Karnik would redirect a well struck free kick from Niku in the 12th minute to give the Saxons an early lead. They then nearly doubled their advantage two minutes later on a long range blast from Schoo in which South keeper Ramsey Khaval did well to save.
The Tigers began to put more pressure on the home side near the half-hour, creating a handful of free kicks and deep throws but nothing of a dangerous nature at Saxons keeper Jake Warren.
Callipari switched to a 3-1-4-2 with the hope the change would inspire the Tigers' attack and with the help of Gabe Wazak, Ryan Dufty, Eric Vargas, McGrath and others, it appeared the new look might yield results.
"We were much better at keeping the ball and creating better opportunities in the second half but we lacked the bite in the final third needed to get something dangerous on frame," said Callipari, now in his 29th year in charge.
"Credit Schaumburg. They defended well as a unit, especially along the back, and did a great job winning balls in the air especially No. 15 (Schoo) and they deserved the result tonight."
Schoo unloaded an unstoppable blast from the right side into the far left inside netting in the 57th minute after he collected a terrific helper from Niku.
The Saxons open Mid-Suburban League play on Thursday at Elk Grove, while the Tigers host Indian Trail, Wis., Friday at Red Grange Field.
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