Kokomo Athletics

The Kokomo Wildkats defeated the hosts, non conference foe Oak Hill, 2-1 Saturday to snap a two-game losing streak. In a match with few clear strikes at goal, the Kats relied on free kicks and creative individual attacking to win their second match of the season. The Wildkats controlled possession and opportunities the first half as a young, inexperienced Golden Eagles squad struggled to get on the ball. Nevertheless, Oak Hill stayed close and competed to closing moments. In the 17th minute of the first half, senior captain and central defender Adrian Reyes smashed a left-footed free kick from 25 yards away from goal into the upper right corner for a 1-0 lead. It was a fantastic finish! However, the Wildkats struggled to control the match as Oak Hill’s plucky attackers created some dangerous chances. Holding a 1-0 halftime lead, the Kats continued to see more of the ball, but it was not until there were 20 minutes left in the match that the Kats doubled their lead. Junior midfielder Enzo Beber Zamberlun received a throw-in on the right flank 25 yards from goal. After beating one mark, Beber Zemberlan acclerated into the box, beat Oak Hill’s last defender, and fired a shot into the lower near post, past the outstretched hands of the Golden Eagles’ keeper. Doubling the lead, the Kats appeared to be in control of the match, but Oak Hill refused to go away quietly. With just under 10 minutes to play, the Golden Eagles earned a penalty kick which they converted, cutting the lead to 2-1. The Wildkats regrouped and kept Oak Hill at bay to seal the win. Junior Augie Gruber played solidly as a back and was your man of the match today. The Wildkats (2-2-1-0, 0-1-0) host non-conference foe Park Tudor Tuesday evening. The Panthers are currently ranked #2 in the 2A coaches poll. Thursday, the Kats host non-conference foe Hamilton Heights before returning to conference play Saturday when they travel to Richmond.