Lions Leap Into Post Season Play

3rd meeting with Vikings on tap today

Photo by Tara Hefferan

Newaygo vs. Tri County Today (Wednesday) 4:30pm. Newaygo Soccer Field

The Newaygo Soccer Squad has put together a strong season blasting out of the blocks with a 10 game unbeaten streak  before hitting the wall against Big Rapids. The Cards were the only team to defeat the Lions in a pair of matches that were dictated by capitalizing on scoring opportunities. But it isn’t  BR standing in the way of the Lions advancing to the District Finals because they landed in a different district. 
Instead it’s Tri County. For the third time the Vikes and Lions will meet on the field and if the first 2 games were any indicator it ought to be a barnburner.
Their previous 2 matchups ended with a late goal win in game one and a dramatic shootout finish in #2 with the Lions taking home both of the W’s.
Coach Matt Painter’s team has a lot of talented younger players and combined with some strong veteran leadership the squad plays a smart and savvy game. 
The Vikings have been knocking at the door in their previous matchups with Newaygo but haven’t been able to finish. After the shootout defeat they will want this one badly.
It is always tough to beat a good team twice. The Lions are being asked to do it 3 times if they are to advance to Friday’s Final against the OV/West Catholic winner.
Once again this one will come down to who grabs the scoring opportunities because both teams  are skilled at game management. If one team jumps out early it’s likely a long road back.
Go Lions!

​