East regroups to win

Williamsville East's varsity boys soccer team (6-0-1, (3-0-1, ) tied at Iroquois, 1-1, on Monday, Sept. 18 then regrouped to defeat West Seneca West, 3-0, at home on Wednesday.

East head coach Ron Schumacher said Iroquois came out strong, moved the ball well and controlled most of the game. His team was flat.

"Outstanding goalkeeping by Brian Wallden kept us in the game," said Schumacher. "Tony Schiappa played a strong game in the middle but got little support."

Striker Mike Kweller's persistent play allowed him to kick the ball in the upper right corner of the Iroquois net. It was his sixth goal of the season.

"We did not have many scoring opportunities but led at halftime," said Schumacher.

Schumacher said play was not much different in the second half. "We did have more scoring opportunities but Iroquois' goalie made some great saves," he said.

Wallden countered by making great saves at the other end, Schumacher said. Iroquois finally scored when Wallden came out for a save only to have the ball chipped over his head.

Against West Seneca West, Schumacher said his team improved ball control and opened the field for scoring opportunities.

Mike Price scored his first of two goals four minutes into the game. Schiappa made a nice pass to Price in front of the net for an assist. About 22 minutes later, Price passed the ball to Kweller for his seventh goal of the season.

East's defense tightened up and did not allow any first half shots.

The Flames continued to dominate the second half but outstanding defense by a West Seneca West sweeper kept East from scoring until Kweller broke in on goal and passed the ball to Price for his second goal.

"The win was a total team effort," said Schumacher. "All played well against a good West Seneca West team."