Section V Boys Soccer

Avon boys survive in PK’s

CALEDONIA — Jimmy Jadlos, Zach Mouw, Jacob Grodis, Nate Taylor and each converted their PK’s during Avon’s 4-3 shoot-out victory over visiting Cal-Mum Wednesday in Class CC first round action.

Avon, who entered the game as the No. 7 seed, could not score on 10th seeded Cal-Mum in regulation and two OT periods, despite outshooting them 18-5.

The game was 0-0 after 100 minutes of scoreless soccer.

In his first-ever varsity start, Avon freshman Brandon Gingher made seven saves. Gingher was put in net because normal goalie Tyler Hite had to replace Avon’s top player — senior Matt Sancilio — who was out with a medical emergency.

“Tyler wanted to step in and be in the field because he knew we needed that plus he has been working with Brandon and knew he could do it,” said Avon coach Tony Patti, who also taught Gingher in both third and fourth grade.

“(Gingher) grew up in front of my eyes today,” added Patti. “That was a big moment for him today.”

Hite did go back between the posts for the shoot-out session.

The Braves had beaten Cal-Mum twice during the regular season — 3-0 and 4-0.

Avon also played without the services of Gretar Gudmundsson, who is out with an injured ankle.

Avon improved to 11-3-3 and will advance to travel to take on No. 2 seeded and defending champion Williamson Saturday.

Patti knows playing without both Sancilio and Gudmundsson Saturday against the defending sectional champs will be a tough chore.

“The biggest thing I want them to do is do the best they can and leave it all out there,” said Patti. “I just want them to have no regrets. They will be playing a great team but they need to leave that field Saturday knowing they played as hard as they can with no regrets.”