The Cougars defeat the Hurricanes 2-1, ending a run of six losses in one-plus seasons to the 'Canes.
By C.J. RISAK
Published November 16, 2004
CLEARWATER - Beaten five times last season, including twice in the state tournament. Then once again, just for good measure, in this year's preseason tournament.
That's the kind of stranglehold Palm Harbor University's girls soccer team had on Countryside. Until Monday night.
A break started by Kassy Boivin led to a finish by Ashley Durie, who slid a shot past Palm Harbor keeper Victoria Wyandt in the 66th minute to give the Cougars a 2-1 triumph.
"In terms of standings, this game meant nothing," Countryside coach Tony Atherholt said. "But it was huge for our confidence. They beat us five times last year and once this year. It was getting into our heads."
Playing into a strong wind in the first half, the Cougars (1-1) got on the board first when Sami Striano intercepted an errant pass and was taken down inside the box seven minutes into the game. Trinity Batye converted the penalty kick and Countryside had a 1-0 lead.
The Hurricanes, 21-1 last season with a Final Four berth on their resume, responded strongly. They kept the play in the Cougars' end of the field through most of the opening half, with their pressure finally paying dividends when Emily Stack headed in Annie Stalzer's corner kick in the 26th minute.
PHU (2-1) continued to apply pressure, but Countryside keeper Kelly Nimmo was equal to all challenges.
"It just wasn't our day today," Hurricanes coach John Planamenta said. "I thought their keeper, Nimmo, played very well tonight. Their whole team did - Countryside deserved to win."
In the second half PHU seemed to carry the play, but the Hurricanes created few dangerous scoring situations - until Durie's goal, which came after a quick counter.
In the final 10 minutes, PHU's Courtney Whidden put three solid shots on net, including one that grazed the crossbar. But none found the mark, thanks in great part to Nimmo.
