St. Francis building through the losses

By Gary Larsen

There’s no denying that where its record is concerned, St. Francis has had more downs than ups in a rocky 2009 season.

The Spartans had a little of both during Wednesday’s game against visiting West Chicago.

The upside featured a strong first half of play for coach Chris Payton’s squad; the downside was a 3-0 halftime deficit.

Through 40 minutes, St. Francis (2-13-1) counterattacked well and had four good scoring chances but couldn’t convert.

 “I was actually very happy with the way we played for most of the first half. I thought we had the better of play,” Payton said. “But (West Chicago) had three chances, and they converted all three of them.”

“They’re always very fast and they always have tons of guys that are real quick, that we’ve struggled to keep up with speed-wise. For us this year, we’ve struggled to put a full eighty minutes of soccer together.”

One player aiming to help the Spartans elevate their play down the stretch is senior Jamie Pigott, who roamed the pitch for the third straight game on Wednesday.

The Spartans’ senior forward missed the previous month due to an ankle injury, but he has looked good since returning to the fold. Pigott scored a goal in the second half against West Chicago, before the Wildcats finished on their final goal to win 4-1 in Wheaton.

“When he first got hurt (Sept. 3 vs. York), I thought he was done for the year,” Payton said. “But he came back quickly and he hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down.”

“He gives our team such great confidence, every time he gets the ball. Our guys just have to avoid standing and watching him. He pushes everyone offensively, and he did that today.”

Adam Fetter and Drew Mascari were offensive workhorses during Pigott’s absence, and his return figures to ease their burden and further open up the attack for the Spartans.

“Everyone felt so much pressure while he was out. Now with (Pigott) back, we’re starting to move the ball around and creating good chances. Fetter distributes the ball so well, and he brings a calm to that central midfield area that really helps.”

Despite their 2-13-1 record, the Spartans have gotten an exceptional effort throughout the year from goalkeeper Ryan Suerte. Payton has also appreciated the development of sophomore Dave Kaminky at midfield.

“He has really built his confidence and he’s becoming a leader out there,” Payton said.

2009 Schedule
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