Even with a retooled roster, Lemont is on track for another double-digit win season.

Lemont graduated one all-stater, Suzie Knutte, but still has one left, Casey Kittridge, plus other impactful players to head into the tough South Suburban Conference tilt against Reavis at 5 p.m. Thursday.
 
Lemont (8-3-0, 3-0-0) heads into the cross-over match against Reavis (6-6-1, 4-1-0) with “Big Mo” on its side. The Blue Division-side has three-straight wins over West Aurora, Glenbard South and Richards, by a accumulative 12-0 score, thanks to a strong defense and high-scoring attack.

In his 30th year, Lemont coach Rick Prangen can easily detail what his team needs against Reavis, which beat Evergreen Park 4-0 Tuesday.

“We will need to control possession throughout the game, limit their transition opportunities, exploit our moments in transition and finish what we create,” Prangen said.

Prangen said his team is on track toward another winning season due to motivated players who are focused on a conference title and strong state run.

“The players this year that have been our most consistent are senior forward Emma Amberg, junior forward Ella Simpson, sophomore midfielder Chase Bergeson and senior defender Casey Kittridge,” he said. “Emma and Ella have consistently been our most dangerous players. Chase has been anchoring our midfield, and Casey is not only our most important defender she has been getting involved in the offensive aspect of the game as well.

“We have been very consistent in our defensive play. We have defended well as an entire team. Additionally, our defensive work often leads to creating attacking opportunities. We have also created many set pieces and have been executing on them to create scoring opportunities.”

Reavis can continue as a major player in the Red Divisiono standings by knocking off Lemont on the road. The Rams have rebounded from a tough start to the season, when they lost three-straight in their Windy City Ram Classic following a season-opening win over Crete-Monee.

One good sign is their improved play on defense. The Rams’ last three wins – Bremen, Oak Forest and Evergreen Park – have come via shutout.

Reavis coach Konrad Dziedzic said his team must be prepared for an 80-minute battle against Lemont.

“To defeat Lemont today, we must focus on defensive organization, reduce errors at the back and take advantage of our scoring chances. We’re aware of how strong Lemont is, so converting our opportunities is crucial for a chance to win today,” Dziedzic said. 

“Our objective is to maintain our focus, stick to our playing style and keep enhancing our teamwork. The team’s high morale is a crucial factor, enabling us to persevere in games, whether we’re leading, trailing or facing tough situations. The girls consistently display hard work and resilience until the final whistle. 

“Regardless of the outcome against Lemont today, our aim is to secure our fourth-consecutive Red Division championship and use that momentum to propel us into playoffs.”