"The Otters proved their strength during the first half of the match," said Alexandria Head Coach Brandon Johnson. They showed up, and with pressure and continuous movement. The Cardinals continued to outpace the Otters with a high possession percentage in the first half of the match."

Getting the only goal was Junior Captain, Cole Haabala, in the 23rd minute of play with the assist from Samuel Diaz. This left the first half with a score of 1-0. 

The second half of the match started to show some of the strength and stamina of the Cardinals team. With possession remaining high and the Cardinals outshooting the Otters 8 to 1, the Cardinals were unable to find any further goals thanks to the exceptional play of Otter goalkeeper, Jayden Manteufel.

"The Otter varsity boys played a great defensive game with Jayden Mantueful notching at least 15 saves and Joey Johnson blocking 3 shots," said Fergus Falls Head Coach Joel Heikes.  "Shane Zierden had a couple grade A opportunities to score but just missed by inches. The whole team left it all on the field but ultimately Alexandria's first half goal was enough."

"With the opening of the season behind the Cardinals, the team is positive at the progress we made and are able to see plenty of opportunities for growth as we dive deeper into the season," added Coach Johnson of Alexandria.

The JV game was tied 2-2 at half time. Leo Schierer scored a goal for the Otters and Marshall Fellbaum went upper left corner on a deep free kick goal. In the second half the Cardinals depth prevailed and they ended up winning 5-2. 

The Alexandria Cardinal Boys Soccer team is currently 1-0 on the season and will look to host the Rocori Spartans on Thursday, September 1 at home with a 7pm kickoff.

Fergus Falls will host Minnewaska Area at 5:00pm Thursday at the Otter Stadium Field.