A free kick turned out to be the difference in the game Sept. 2, as Pulaski handed Waupaca a 1-0 defeat in a nonconference boys’ soccer matchup.
The Red Raiders outshot the Comets 7-2 and scored the game’s only goal six minutes into the second half off of a free kick from the midfield.
Waupaca fell to 1-5-1 on the season and goalkeeper Eric Cummings made six saves.
“Although the game result was not in our favor, this was the best soccer game the team played to date,” coach Mark Polebitski said. “There was a focused effort to retain possession of the ball and to make a positive play. The ball stayed on the ground, especially in the final attacking third of the field. We played balls to the feet in the final third of the soccer field rather than in the air.”
Pulaski’s goal came off of a direct kick from midfield, according to Polebitski.
“Jake Overman went up for the ball and got hammered by two Pulaski players,” he said. “I thought the ball was going our way. The linesman on the other side of the field pointed white, but the center saw it different and they got the kick. It was really unfortunate that the call declared the outcome of the game.”
The Comets were able to push another attacker upfront.
“Ryan Fuss played outside forward up from his normal position of defensive midfield,” Polebitski said. “The coaching staff was proud of the fact that the four defensive backs and midfielders were able to adjust and pick up the extra attacker. This was a gametime decision and the team reacted very well.”
Waupaca hosted Appleton Xavier in an Eastern Valley Conference matchup Tuesday and will compete in Saturday’s Wausau West Invitational, which starts at 10 a.m.
“I see great improvement in this young and inexperienced team,” Polebitski said. “They get smarter and tougher with every match. This is the type of team that will improve with each and every game.”
• Waupaca’s nonconference match at Menasha St. Mary Central originally scheduled for Aug. 31 has been rescheduled for 5 p.m. Monday, Sept. 27.