FOR ANTIGO TIMES

The Antigo Red Robins boys varsity soccer team recently
traveled to Rhinelander for their third conference match of the
season, and twelfth total match of the season. With two conference
losses and a total record of 1-7-3, Antigo was looking for another win
and perhaps its first conference win. First half play was very even,
although Rhinelander was able to get off more shots, actual shots on
goal were very even. In all for the match, Antigo goalkeeper Cordell
Umland only needed to record 11 saves, easily collecting any shot
Rhinelander had to offer. Coach Wilhelm said “In the first half we
were really able to set the tone of play, and then play at our pace,
and I’m really proud of our players for their assertiveness and
discipline.” With the game scoreless, 0-0 at half, the Robins stayed
strong and even play continued. Antigo had a number of offensive
possessions with significant contributions from mids Kaden Steckbauer
and Wes Ebel. As both teams began to tire, very late in the game in
the 86th minute, with Antigo’s defense still holding strong,
Rhinelander took a strong shot inside the 18. Umland easily got two
hands on it, but the hard shot bounced off his gloves and then spun
behind him, crossing the goal line to make it 1-0, in favor of
Rhinelander. Amazingly the Robins were able to respond immediately and
answer in the 88th minute. Brody Bunnell took a corner kick which
skillfully flew in front of the net to Tanner Resch who was able to
put a head on it and sink the ball for the equalizer. With barely two
minutes remaining, neither team was able to effectively control the
ball for further offensive effort, and the game ended in a tie 1-1.
This left Rhinelander 1-1-2 in conference, and Antigo 0-2-1 in
conference play. Notably, this is the first time since Antigo joined
the Great Northern Conference, that the Robins boys soccer team has
not recorded a loss in conference play! Coach Wilhelm said “After our
showing this match, I’m really excited for the remainder of our season
and especially our conference matches. I know from looking at
conference stats that Antigo has only ever lost in GNC play, so to tie
a formidable team like Rhinelander says amazing things about our
potential.”