Headers propel Bulldogs past University

SANDPOINT - Looking to gain the necessary seasoning for a run at the 5A state title, the Sandpoint girls soccer team scheduled games against the top five teams from the Greater Spokane League.

It's one down, four to go for the Bulldogs, who converted two corner kicks to score a 2-0 non-league win over University High School Thursday night under the lights of War Memorial Field.

Kendall Stratton headed in the first kick from Ellie Engel, as the two players head coach Adam Tajan calls his "freshman connection" connected. Brittany Oakley finished a drive from Brittany Clawson for the other goal, as the Bulldogs looked crisp and controlled much of the possession.

"Good, hard, physical play tonight on our marks," said Tajan of the stiff defensive effort. "It was a total team effort. Our backs stepped up when we lost Alicia."

Tajan was referring to Alicia Mertz, who left by ambulance for precautionary reasons after her head hit the ground in the first half. Oakley moved into the back four, where she was a big factor in the shutout.

The Bulldogs excel at corner kicks by not being afraid to sacrifice their bodies.

"I use the term bravery a lot," explained Tajan. "There are a lot of heads crashing into each other."

Kelsey Windju registered her second shutout in goal for the Bulldogs (5-1).

Sandpoint plays at Gonzaga Prep, one of the two best teams in the GSL, Saturday at 1 p.m.

First half - 1, Kendall Stratton (Ellie Engel), 12:00. Second half - 2, Spt, Brittany Oakley (Brittany Clawson), 60:00.

Shots on goal - UHI 6, Spt 14.

Saves - UHI, Kolby Falco 7; Spt, Kelsey Windju 3.