The Lindbergh High School girls soccer team notched a statement win on April 14, shutting out Union 2-0 behind a dominant performance from sophomore standout Kasey Patten. Patten netted both goals—one in each half—leading the Flyers to victory. She now has three goals on the season for Lindbergh.
The Flyers’ defense also shone against Union, with Mackenzie Bieg and Josie Watz combining efforts in goal to secure the clean sheet. It was the third win of the season for Lindbergh, who had previously defeated Seckman and Jackson on March 25 and April 7, respectively.
With the win against Union, Lindbergh improved to 3-5-1 on the year. As of April 30, Lindbergh sits at 5-10-1.
Despite a losing record, the Flyers have been competitive in a challenging early-season schedule, suffering narrow losses to strong programs like Cor Jesu, losing 1-2, and Rockwood Summit, losing 0-1. Though the opposition has been stiff, Lindbergh head coach Jake Pittroff emphasized the importance of testing his squad against elite competition.
“We’ve been competitive and played in some really tough games. I think we are starting to put things together and play better.” Pittroff said. “I’m a big believer that a team has to be built by playing the best. In order to be the best, you have to beat the best.”
With the postseason looming, Pittroff hopes the rigorous schedule will pay dividends.
“I think the tough schedule helps us,” Pittroff said. “We are getting better technically and tactically. I also think our decision-making has improved, especially defensively.”
The team is led by captain Lauren Smith, who will continue her soccer career at Spring Hill College, a Division II school. Senior Kate Warren also provides leadership and experience, while Danni Cotter, who has tallied four points this season, is set to play at UMSL. Patten, as well as Gabby Moran, who has six points on the season, have emerged as key offensive catalysts.
With a daunting Class 4 district on the horizon, Pittroff remains realistic about the challenges ahead.
“It’s just a powerhouse,” Pittroff said. “It’s one tough district.”
As the Flyers continue to build both their tactical foundation and mental grit, Pittroff is optimistic about where this journey could lead.
“It’s a journey of learning,” he said. “The girls are building aptitude and mind skills, which are life skills they will need to be successful.”
The Flyers faced Notre Dame on April 16, winning 1-0. They next played Webster Groves on April 18, St. Joseph’s on April 21 and Layayette on April 22, losing the three games 0-3, 1-4 and 0-5, respectively.
They next played Ursuline Academy on April 25 , losing 0-1, Fox on April 28, winning 4-1, and John Burroughs on April 29, losing 0-6.
Lindbergh will next face Mehlville on May 2 at 4 p.m.
