The Boys Varsity Soccer team returned to Cedar Springs to take on Fruitport on Thursday evening with a Regional Championship and a spot in the State Semifinals on the line. The Eagles started the game strong, breaking down the high pressure from the Trojans. The composure on the ball from the Eagle's back line and midfield allowed the Eagles to build strong attacks while the Trojans sought to counter-attack with a more direct style against the Eagles. Midway through the first half, the Eagles were able to strike from a corner kick served in by freshman Liam Jansen and volleyed home by senior Andrew Overvoorde. This lone goal held up through the remainder of the half, just as a light rain started to fall. 

The Eagles resumed their ball movement in the second half as the skies opened up into a torrential downpour. The possession of the Eagles allowed more control of the ball and attacking opportunities. As the game progressed, the urgency of the Trojans to find an equalizer increased as did the physicality of the game. The Eagles hit the post and forced a good save from the Fruitport goalkeeper, but were unable add to their lead. Meanwhile, the Eagles doubled-down on their defensive commitment and, anchored by the back line of Carter Goodyke, Andrew Schepel and Soren White, were able to close out the game for a 1-0 victory. Senior goalkeepers Christian Dershem and Chase Harmelink shared duties in the net and are credited with the shutout while great play from the center midfielders (Emmett Vance, David Pontarelli, Peter Borst and Liam Jansen) were key to controlling the field on offense and defense. 

The Eagles will face off against Holland Christian in the State Semifinals at Forest Hills Central on Wednesday, November 1. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 pm.