SILOAM SPRINGS — Rogers Heritage hasn’t had much success in penalty kick periods over the last couple of years, according to coach Craig Frank. But the War Eagles got the job done Thursday against Siloam Springs.
Heritage was 5 for 5 in the penalty kicks period after a 1-1 tie in regulation, and goalkeeper Javier Piedra made a save on one of Siloam Springs’ kicks to give Heritage a 2-1 win at Glenn W. Black Stadium.
“That’s our first PK win in three years so we shook that monkey off the back,” Frank said. “Both teams had opportunities. Both teams missed some very quality chances. It was an even played game.”
Heritage’s Brian Banuelos, Diego Santillan, Eric Grom, Saul Lopez and Luis Alpizar all converted on penalty kicks. Alpizar’s goal past Siloam Springs goalkeeper proved to be the game-winner.
Siloam Springs (13-5, 1-5) went up 1-0 in the first half when Aldair Umana scored, but the Panthers could have been up 2-0. A penalty kick goal from Alejandro Dominguez was waived off when a Siloam Springs player had illegally entered the 18-yard box during the PK.
Heritage (16-2, 4-2) tied the game in the second half on a goal from Jose Pina.
“That was a mistake we made,” said Siloam Springs coach Jason Bowen on the PK. “But there was a breakdown defensively to give them a goal. There were missed opportunities on both sides. I thought it was a well-played match both ways.”
GIRLS
Heritage 1
Siloam Springs 0
Ellen Lundy’s goal in the 20th minute proved to be the difference for the Lady War Eagles.
Shannon Stribling lofted a free kick from 40 yards out and Lundy connected on the bounce past Siloam Springs keeper Hannah Poor.
Heritage improved to 12-4-2 overall and 3-3 in conference play. Siloam Springs dropped to 10-8, 1-5.