By RYAN ARENA

L’Observateur

COVINGTON – St. Charles didn’t emerge with a win Thursday when it faced Northlake Christian. But the Comets posed a serious threat to the top ranked team in Division III, falling 1-0 on a goal scored in the 60th minute of play.

“We had some opportunities in the second half, but nothing fell in,” said St. Charles coach Bill Ballard. “But I think we surprised them. The kids are excited. Our guys went in extremely focused.”

Ballard said the goal was a result of flawless execution by the Wolverines and a defensive breakdown by the Comets (5-3-1).

“It came on a pass from the top to the right side. The guy made a very nice volley, fired a ball chest high and drilled it in,” said Ballard. “We didn’t have anyone within five yards. It was a breakdown.”

At the same time, Ballard praised his team’s strong defensive effort as a whole, noting outstanding plays made by his goalkeeper, Gerard Giangrosso, and his back four of Josh Matherne, Andrew Montalbano, Clay Olasin and Ben Brady.

“Our defense played a tremendous game,” said Ballard. “We fell short in other areas and (Northlake) exposed some of our weaknesses. But we told the guys that this next week of practice is going to be hard as we look to clean up some of what the coaches saw. And they all agreed.”

On Tuesday, St. Charles won their fifth match of the season with a 9-1 victory over Thibodaux.

Jordan Miranda scored four times to lead SCC. Jimmy Antin scored two.

Ben Brady, Andrew Brady and Martin Avelos each scored a goal.