The Parkview boys varsity looked to continue their 8 game unbeaten streak Tuesday night, but instead were defeated by the Camdenton Lakers 2-0. The play was even from the start of the match, with both teams applying pressure on goal but neither getting any great scoring chances until the middle of the first half when a Camdenton player passed the ball up to an attacker guarded by Jared Moore. Moore made what seemed to be a solid tackle just outside the 6, knocking the ball completely outside of the penalty area and making contact with the attacker as well. The referee decided that this tackle was a foul, resulting in a penalty kick for the Lakers inside the penalty area. Goalkeeper Jon Malter made a diving save to his left knocking the ball out but a Camdenton player followed up the play and finished the goal before any Parkview players could recover. Coach Clint Nurnberg demanded an explanation for a call that he clearly disagreed with, but the referee refused to acknowledge him until forced to converse with coach after giving a yellow card to team captain Will Griffin. Parkview was issued 4 yellow cards in the match, their most on the season, including one for Coach Nurnberg following the penalty kick goal. Throughout the rest of the game both teams played a physical and aggressive brand of soccer, and Parkview was able to create a few great scoring chances in part thanks to a solid game by outside-midfielder Leland Eckstam who was able to penetrate, cross, and make plays for the Vikings. Clearly though Parkview struggled due to an inablitity to finish chances and making a habit of losing the ball on the dribble. The goalkeeping of Jon Malter was a big positive for the Parkview boys, although no-one was without flaw Malter not only saved the penalty kick attempt but also showed improved aggressiveness by coming out to grab crosses and balls played over the top.

The Parkview boys junior varsity, who played the first game of the night, had a twin result but a much different game. Parkview gave up a goal right off the bat due to a marking mistake by the defense, starting down a goal which was something the Vikings had been able to avoid of late. The first half ended 2-0 Lakers, and as the second half was underway it was clear that Parkview had decided to give maximum effort from the start, something that had eluded them in the first half. The play was increasingly better throughout the majority of the second half for the Vikings, who found themselves gaining momentum and challenging the keeper with a handful of opportunities. Parkview however was unable to finish chances however, and the game ended with the Vikings losing 2-0.

The Parkview boys will look to rebound in their game against a tough Neosho squad on Thursday night at home. The game will be played at 5:30 on JFK with the JV taking the field first and the Varsity to follow. This Thursday night game at home should be a fun one so come out and support our team!

Also important to note is the “Southwest Missouri Soccer Coaches poll #3, Class 3″ that was recently released, moving Parkview up the ladder.

1-Glendale (35) 14-1
2-Kickapoo (28) 12-3
3-Rolla (21) 12-4
4-Parkview (13) 11-4-1
5-Joplin (8) 10-5

-Joseph Florez

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