Issaquah Opens With Blowout of Couer d'Alene 20-2

ISSAQUAH- A large crowd clad in purple and gold turned out for the season opener of Issaquah's 2011 campaign.  The off season loss of Tyler Lucas was the center of the kick-off.  A tribute for Tyler preceded the face-off. Issaquah coach Brandon Fortier dedicated this season in honor of Tyler Lucas. With Tyler's parents in attendence, the Eagles took to the field with high energy to take on the Couer d'Alene Vikings from Idaho.  

Photo of Jake Fritz

The Eagles offense led by Ashton Ritchie and Jake Fritz were without preseason All-American midfielder Kevin Powers.  Ben Director scored the first goal off a nice split dodge from up top.  Issaquah ran an isolation from behind giving the ball to Fritz and Ritchie to create.  They switched into a 2:2 formation and the goals started coming. The Vikings did not have the ability to keep up with the flying Eagles.  The halftime score was 11-1.  The offense played composed and disciplined running their systems and formations.  On the defensive end LSM Kole Lindor and goalie O'Neill Hughes played a tough pressure defense, causing turnovers.  The Vikings got one goal in the second quarter.  The second half continued the same way.  Issaquah continued to dominate play, giving their young guys experience needed for a tough season ahead.  By the fourth quarter the Eagle freshman took to the field.  Issaquah won thier season opener 20-2.  Issaquah point leaders were Jake Fritz with five goals and Ben Director, Ashton Ritchie and Michael Hatcher all had hat tricks and one assist.  The early easy win will allow for the Eagles to make improvements to their systems and personnel.  Their next game is at home is Tuesday against Mukilteo at 8pm.