Mustangs can't follow up on DG North win
By Eddie Burns
Downers Grove South was held without a goal for the third time in four matches during its 5-0 loss at Naperville North on Saturday.
Mustangs' assistant coach Nate Terry led the squad while head coach Jon Stapleton was away at a family commitment.
Terry said he hopes the Mustangs can learn from reviewing the film.
"(North's) record doesn't hide the fact that they are a very good side," Terry said. "They really showed us today how much quality they have. I thought the way they were able to connect with their counterattacks were particularly good to watch from our standpoint.
"It is definitely a learning thing that we can go back and show our kids about what the difference a good counterattack and support of play can mean – especially on the scoreboard."
The Mustangs (4-8-5) entered with some momentum after stunning rival Downers Grove North for three goals in the second half to win a rain-shortened affair 3-2 on Thursday night, but there was no carryover into the match with the Huskies.
Naperville North (11-0-4) jumped out to a 2-0 lead at intermission, but the Mustangs created scoring chances.
"I thought particularly in the first half and at times in the second half, we were able to crash them and create some scoring opportunities in our final third," Terry said.
"Unfortunately that didn't result in anything for us, but the building blocks are there."
Finding the back of the net has been a problem throughout the season.
"We've tried different people in different spots, but today was a good example for us of getting ourselves some chances with good, creative play and the next step is taking those chances and putting them away," Terry said.
Naperville North’s ability to support its offensive attack really separated itself from Downers South.
"If we can replicate the same counterattack and speed and give the same support that they gave their attacking players, we are going to be in much better shape than we currently are," Terry said.
These two teams could meet again in the regional semifinals. Downers South received the 15th seed in its sectional and must play 18th-seed Romeoville and the winner gets No. 2-seed Naperville North on the Huskies’ home field.
"It does help us to see them," Terry said. "We now have a picture of what they are about."
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