TAWAS AREA - Apr. 16, 2007 - Kristine Jackson scored on a penalty kick midway through the first half, propelling Tawas Area to a 1-0 season-opening girls soccer victory over Oscoda.

The Braves' Asia Finnell earned Jackson her PK as she was taken down in the box by an Oscoda defender.

Tawas spent almost the entire first half in front of the Oscoda goal, thanks in part to a stiff wind at the Braves' back. In the second half, Tawas still controlled much of the action despite moving into the wind.

"For as much time as we were in front of them, I can't say I'm very happy with our shots -- our our lack thereof, and our (lack of) ability to mount a serious attack," said Tawas coach Ken Cook. "We have a lot to work on, but I know these girls are capable of playing great soccer and just need some more practice time."

The Owls, for their part, were happy with their play, despite the loss.

Oscoda coach Gary Schneider was particularly pleased with the "great defensive effort by our squad.

"We need to work harder at manufacturing more shots on goal for our next match."

Tawas outshot Oscoda 11-2, forcing Oscoda keeper Ashley Crawford to make nine saves. The Braves' Ashley Krumm recorded the shutout, making two saves.

The Owls credited Margaret Negro, Jill Carl, Erica Nolff and Katia Kotula with strong defensive play, including one non-keeper save by Kotula to keep it close.

Tawas (1-0,1-0 NEMC) will take the win and head to Standish-Sterling on Wednesday, while Oscoda travels to John Glenn.

"We all agreed we are thankful for the win," Cook said. "We'll chalk this one up to having 12 days off for Spring Break and first-game jitters."