Jim Walker

jim.walker@irontontribune.com

 

It has been said that possession is nine/tenths of the law. It might apply to the St. Joseph Flyers’ 3-0 soccer win over the Portsmouth West Senators on Saturday.

The Flyers had 33 shots to a mere three by West. St. Joseph also had seven corner kicks and West two.

“We possessed the ball the majority of the game. Our shot differential was unreal. This was due to our defensive backs controlling the game and transitioning the ball well,” said Flyers’ coach Mike Balestra referring to Daniel Hodges, Chase Walter, Clay Willis and T.J. Stone.

Tre Neal, Bryson Canter and Peyton Adkins all had goals for the Flyers. Blake Balestra and Neal each had an assist while goalkeeper Bradley Rist registered the shutout.

Goalie Jeff Myers had 15 saves for West.

St. Joseph had two fouls and three offside penalties. West had seven fouls and no offside penalties.

“It was great teamwork. We played really well both offensively and defensively,” said coach Balestra.

St. Joseph is now 6-2 and hosts West Carter at 6 p.m. on Thursday.