Girls Soccer: Lincoln-Way North blanks Lincoln-Way West

Updated: May 9, 2012 10:05PM

Lincoln-Way North maneuvered more scoring chances Wednesday night against host Lincoln-Way West, and the Phoenix finally capitalized 70 minutes into the game.

Jessica Bean tucked a rolling shot inside the post with 10:32 to play and Brenna Stremlau scored an insurance goal a minute later from 40 yards out to give North a 2-0 SouthWest Suburban Red victory in the regular-season finale for both teams.

“I had a really good pass from Marissa Jones,’’ Bean said. “I was debating whether to left foot or right foot it, but my left foot wasn’t working for me today. I just shot with the outside of my right foot.’’

The victory gave North (15-7-1, 5-1) a share of the SouthWest Red championship with Lincoln-Way Central.

“We beat Lincoln-Way Central, so kind of like a tiebreaker,’’ North coach Mike Murphy said with a smile. “But it will go down as co-champions.

“I’ve got to give it to my seniors. They stepped up in this game — Bean, Rita Craven, Dena Waldier, Michelle Balcerzak in goal, Kristi Cesario. You’ve got to give them credit.’’

North earned a first-round bye in the Class 2A Marian Catholic Regional and will play in the May 18 regional title match against the winner of the semifinal between the host Spartans and Tinley Park.

West (13-6, 2-4) will face Rich Central on Tuesday in the Warriors’ Class 2A regional semifinals.

“They controlled possession of the game, but a counterattack can happen at any moment,’’ West coach Jeff Theiss said. “They’re a very good team, strong through the middle.’’

West goaltender Kayla Lojas came up with several key saves to keep the game within reach.

“She was huge,’’ Theiss said. “I told her at halftime that’s the best game she’s ever played. She’s a key component to our success.’’

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