Senior Annie Pierce scored the only goal in the Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School girls soccer team’s 1-0 victory over Westfield Saturday at Gary Keller Stadium in Westfield.
Late in the first half, the Raiders were awarded a free kick. Instead of waiting for the both teams to get ready for a set piece, junior Sophie Brause decided to take the free kick almost immediately after it was awarded. She caught the Blue Devil defense off guard, as her pass found sophomore Erika Muskus with Pierce to her left and only the goal keeper in front.
The Westfield goalkeeper deflected Muskus’ shot, but Pierce ran to the ball and put it into the open net for the goal.
“Scoring the goal really boosted our team,” Pierce said, “I think that we needed that to push through for the rest of the game and it really motivated us to work harder.”
Westfield did have chances to tie the game, as the Raiders defense held firm. Most notably, Raider goalkeeper Andrea Leitner made an outstanding stop when she punched a Westfield shot to distance the ball over the bar.
“Andrea Leitner has been outstanding,” Ewing said, “Caroline Babis, Taylor Diggs, and Jackie Farneholtz have been awesome for us in the back.”
The Raiders have yet to allow a goal on the season and will look to continue that streak as they return home on Thursday to face Elizabeth at 4:00.