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No need to pitch a fit: Allen's defense much improved in last week
BY Kevin Hageland, khageland@starlocalnews.com
Two weeks ago, Allen boys soccer was in a tough stretch as it allowed six combined goals versus Plano West and McKinney Boyd, picking up just one point in the process.
The defense has been addressed since then as the Eagles (2-1-2, 6 points) have posted two shutouts in the past week and moved into sole possession of second place in District 10-5A following Friday's scoreless draw with third-place McKinney and a 1-0 victory Tuesday night over fourth-place Plano Senior.
The shutout versus the Wildcats was particularly pivotal.
As the final score and standings would dictate, Tuesday's match was tight.
"Both teams had early chances," said Doug Adams, Plano head coach. "The game really ebbed and flowed."
The Eagles pulled ahead, 1-0, in the second half after being awarded a free kick from 30 yards out. The ball was fired in to the edge of the 6-yard box by Allen senior Austin Robinson and senior teammate Kevin Ptacek got there right before the Plano goalkeeper for the lone goal of the match.
"Austin put the ball in there perfectly," Hantak said. "And Kevin won it with the header."
Tuesday's 1-0 result propelled Allen to second while Plano is now tied with Plano East for the final playoff spot at the midway point of district.
"This was a pretty big game for both teams," Adams said. "Allen is battling for a (postseason) spot just like we are so obviously we wanted to win, but we also came in hoping for at least a tie."
Allen did Plano no favors there, but could help the Wildcats Friday as the Eagles, who will not be at full strength over the next week due to cards and injuries, host the Panthers at 7:30 p.m. from Ford Middle School.
"We've got skill, great vision, composure with our possession and now we are showing that heart too," Hantak said. "I feel like we are all on the same page and now it's just a matter of putting it all together, because we all know what this team is capable of."
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