Down a goal less than six minutes into the game Wednesday, the Collinsville girls soccer team overcome tired legs to notch a 2-1 victory over Alton Marquette.

Kathryn Besserman / Photo by Sherry Holten

After the Lady Kahoks (7-2-1) won a hard-fought victory at conference foe O’Fallon Tuesday, Head Coach Clay Smith said the team had heavy legs Wednesday.

“It’s hard to play two games in a row, especially after that game last night,” Smith said.

Sophia Sharos overcame her tired legs to bury a shot from the top of the penalty box to tie the game at one, where it stood at halftime. The Goal was Sharos’ eighth on the season.

Hanna Liljegren grabbed the game winner for the Kahoks when her shot off a rebound found the back of the net. Smith said Liljegren is often overlooked by opponents.

“People forget about her on the other side, which is a great thing for us,” Smith said. “She just sneaks in there and really anticipates the play well.”

The game lacked enthusiasm, Smith said, although his team picked up the pace in the second half. The Lady Kahoks were playing after a half-day at school and on the first day of spring break.

Despite the circumstances, Collinsville was able to defeat a good Alton Marquette (4-3) team.

“Alton Marquette’s a great team, they make big runs in the post season every year,” Smith said.

Collinsville returns to action against at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday against Nerinx Hall at Kahok Stadium.