Kirtland scored three goals in the first 11 minutes and the Hornets’ defense did the rest in a 3-0 win over visiting Rootstown on Monday.
Maya Zovko opened the scoring in the fifth minute and Jenna Sayle and Hanna Vouk went back-to-back in the 10th and 11th minutes to close out the scoring for the Hornets, who improved to 8-2-2 overall and have now outscored their opponents, 37-7.
“We knew going into this game that this team was not to be taken lightly,” said Vouk, a junior captain. “We played as any other game would be played.”
Zovko’s goal was the fourth of her freshman season.
“Maya plays with a very offensive mindset and always knows where she wants the ball to go,” Vouk said. “I think it is great to see a freshman stepping up like she is this year and I enjoy watching her slow down the defense and score quite often.”
Sayle and Vouk both now have six goals on the season.
“My goal was a breakaway, one-on-one with the goalie after I beat the girl on my right,” Vouk said. “I cut the ball to my left, then proceed to hit the post. I thought I wouldn't be able to get to the ball at the last second, but I fortunately I did. I tapped it in with my left foot and turned to see my teammates smiling.”
Lilia Valentic, Zovko and Vouk all had assists in the game.
The shutout was the ninth for the Hornets and the fifth straight.
“As always, our team keeps pushing each other to be better at every game, and it stems from leadership all around and the 110-percent effort our girls give to the game,” Vouk said. “Lindsay Ward constantly is bringing us closer together and leads with the upmost confidence. Another person who always is encouraging others is Katie McCollister. She works so hard and deserves a lot more credit for her go and get it attitude. The Kirtland Hornets are proud to have a teammate like her.”
Kirtland hosts Independence on Tuesday.
