09 May 2012 Conway boys soccer team loses in PK shootout

The Conway High School Wampus Cats boys soccer team ended its conference season on Tuesday at Russellville. 

The Cats came into the game in second place in the conference and needed a win to hold onto that position.

They were playing without senior goalie Hector Saenz who was injured in the Bryant game last Tuesday but two younger goalies stepped in and had an outstanding game. Freshman Connor Porter started the first half in goal and was well protected by the defense. The Cyclones did not get many opportunities to score in the opening half as the Cats defense turned back any and all attacks into their third of the field. 

Conway’s defense is anchored by senior Joshua Ashley-Pauley and freshman Matthew Cummins with outside halfbacks freshman Carlos Beltran and junior Matthew Williams. 

The teams went into halftime tied 0-0. 

Conway put sophomore Kwan Tolbert in the goal for the second half and he played very well in the goalkeeper position having three great saves during his time in the game. The Cats were unable to put the ball in the goal and had many chances to do so but were not able to score. 

The game ended in regulation tied 0-0 and Conway faced its first penalty kick shootout of the season. Seven players had shots from the mark and the Cyclones were able to grab a win with a 5-4 advantage over the Wampus Cats. 

Conway ended the game in third place in conference and will open state tournament play at 7 p.m. Thursday against the sixth seed from the 7A West, Rogers Heritage at Fort Smith Northside. If they win, Conway will play at 4 p.m. Friday.