Windsor kicks off NBL schedule this week
The Lady Jaguars continued their assault on pre-league soccer opponents last weekend at the Lady Cat Classic Tournament in Ukiah, claiming two wins and a tie in a solid showing.
Windsor recorded victories over Petaluma (3-1) and Arcata (4-0) before settling for a hard-fought 1-1 tie with Sonoma Valley.
At press time, the Jags (5-1-1) were prepping for a titanic clash with nationally ranked Maria Carrillo in the North Bay League opener on Sept. 13, followed by a visit to Ukiah on Thursday, Sept. 15 in a 7 p.m. varsity start. Windsor will host Santa Rosa at Wilson Ranch on Tuesday, Sept. 20 at 6 p.m.
Although it’s still early, this year’s strong start for the Jaguars is in contrast to early struggles last season, as the team enters league play with a full head of steam.
“We still have things to work on, but the coaching staff is very encouraged by the team’s play so far,” WHS coach Mark Archambault reported. “Both games this week will be a very good test for us to see exactly where we are, and what our strengths and weakness are.”
Jags flex muscles in Ukiah
Windsor served notice in the first game of the Lady Cat Classic on Sept. 9, taking charge against a solid Petaluma opponent from the opening kick en route to a 3-1 win. Katie Bianchi continued to scorch the net with a team-high two goals, while Kelly Berndt also scored a goal for the Jags. Credit Taylor Brogden, Samantha Moberly and Olivia Sievers with assists.
It was all Windsor in Saturday’s second match of the tournament against Arcata, controlling the flow of play from start to finish in an eventual 4-0 shutout. Madi Baer and Bianchi scored two goals apiece for the Jaguars, while Baer (2), Amber Balogh and Moberly had assists.
Windsor squared off against Sonoma Valley in Saturday’s tourney finale, with the teams battling to a 1-1 tie. Bianchi finished up a great tournament with a goal (assisted by Balogh).
Bianchi had the Lady Jags lone goal in the Sonoma Valley game with the assist coming from Balogh.
“The defense played very well in all three games and offensively, we moved the ball around nicely and found the open players,” Archambault noted. “Two of the three fields we played on were small and the team was able to make the adjustments needed.”
