Cardinals Show Fight in Tough Road Test at Coopersville

The Nest, Inside Orchard View Athletics
Justin Troyer
Presented By: Cadena Brothers Pizza

Coopersville, MI -- The Orchard View Cardinals stepped into a challenging non-conference matchup Monday night, traveling to face a strong Coopersville squad. The Cardinals battled throughout the evening but ultimately fell 4-1, dropping to 1-2 on the season.

The matchup came after Orchard View lost an opportunity to build momentum on Friday when Grand Rapids Wellspring Prep failed to show for the scheduled contest. With Monday’s game providing another chance to take the field, the Cardinals faced a quality Coopersville team on the road.

Coopersville established control early and carried a 3-1 advantage into halftime. Despite the deficit, Orchard View continued to compete and came out with renewed energy in the second half.

The Cardinals’ lone goal came from senior Wyatt Johnson, with junior Aiden Leek recording the assist.

The second half featured some of Orchard View’s best moments of the night, particularly from its senior and junior leaders.

Senior Nito Ortega and junior Bryson Stingle both stepped up, setting the tone with their play and rallying their teammates as the Cardinals continued to battle. “Both guys led by example and helped set the tone for a much stronger second-half effort,” said Head Coach Chris Belasco.

Junior Caleb Bennett also made an impact through his pressure. His work throughout the second half forced several Coopersville turnovers and helped the Cardinals regain possession and create opportunities.

At the other end of the field, junior Keegan Bringle continued to provide a steady presence in goal.
Bringle turned in another quality performance in net, making plays to keep the Cardinals within the contest against a talented Coopersville attack.

Coopersville eventually added a fourth goal in the second half, securing the 4-1 victory. Still, Orchard View’s response after halftime provided positives for a Cardinals team continuing to find its identity early in the season.

The Cardinals now sit at 1-2 following the non-conference loss. After missing Friday’s opportunity to gain valuable game experience, Orchard View will look to use the lessons from Monday’s matchup—and the fight shown in the second half—as it moves forward with its season.

Cardinal Supporters: Poo Patrol Muskegon

Photo Credit: Trisha Stingle