A Salem player uses his head to advance a ball upfield. (Ed Wright photo)

Rocks break even at Balconi Invite

BY ED WRIGHT
Aug. 21, 2010, 10:15 p.m.

  Salem's soccer team kick-started its 2010 season Saturday by going 1-1-1 at the talent-rich Gary Balconi Invitational.

  The Rocks opened with a tough 1-0 setback to Novi Catholic Central, the tournament's eventual runner-up. The lone goal came on a Shamrocks' re-start from 25 yards out.

  In game two, Salem battled to a 1-1 draw with Canton. The Rocks scored first when freshman Blake Townes ripped a shot into the back of the net off a Chris Ensor assist with just seconds remaining in the first half.

  Canton scored with approximately five minutes to play in the contest.

  Salem put it all together in the finale, upending Midland Dow, 2-0. Chris Dierker tallied the ice-breaker on a break-away off a slick pass from Townes.

  Senior Tommy Halewicz added an insurance goal off a re-start cross.

  Sophomore goalie Erick Beas was stellar in goal, recording the first varsity shutout of his career.

  To read a preview story on Salem's 2010 team, CLICK HERE.

  Ed Wright can be reached at (734) 453-1980 or info@plymouthcantonsports.com.

A Rock and a Midland Dow player battle for possession of the ball. (Ed Wright photo)

Salem's Brandon Barfuss heads a ball away from a hard-charging Midland Dow player. (Ed Wright photo)