Kolliniatis Leads Lockport to Sectional Championship with Decisive Overtime Goal

1 week ago 0

Aleko Kolliniatis delivered an unforgettable moment for the Lockport Porters during a crucial game. His overtime goal left teammates and fans in awe, ensuring a 2-1 victory over Stagg in the Class 3A Lincoln-Way East Sectional championship in Frankfort. “I ran right to the fans, so I didn’t see my teammates’ faces,” Kolliniatis commented. “But I was shocked myself. That’s one of the best goals I’ve scored.”

Kolliniatis’ decisive strike came from 20 yards, perfectly placed inside the far post, giving him his second goal of the match. This victory marks Lockport’s third sectional title, all secured in the last six years, with the team now holding a 14-5-2 record. Their next challenge will be against the host Lions, who stand at 21-0-1, on Monday at 5 p.m. during the Lyons Supersectional.

Jakub Krol scored for Stagg, assisted by David Gorz. Meanwhile, Christian Komosinski made five saves for Stagg, which ranks second with a 16-5-1 record. Kolliniatis’ goal in overtime came after he deftly outmaneuvered a defender and sent a high shot into the net. “I didn’t know it was going to end up like that,” he admitted. “I’m a lefty. Let me just take a rip at it.”

Lockport’s coach, Chris Beal, praised Kolliniatis for his confidence and skill. “To have the audacity to even try that shot and actually pull it off shows he’s at a high level,” Beal said. Kolliniatis now boasts 18 goals, significantly leading the team’s scorers.

As a junior, Kolliniatis embraces his leadership role. “A lot of people on this team look up to me as the leader, and I love that role,” he said. Gavin Peery, who assisted a goal in the match, highlighted Kolliniatis’ passion. “He’s always helping us,” Peery said.

The Porters initially trailed 1-0 until Kolliniatis scored following a skilled combination play. Justas Ulinskas set up the play with a long pass, and Peery headed it to Kolliniatis for a tap-in. Kolliniatis is motivated to match his father Nick’s legacy, who won a state title in 1993. “This was the next step,” he said. “We’re going to keep playing hard.”

Coach Beal reiterated Kolliniatis’ clutch capability. “That’s why he’s an all-state level of player,” Beal noted. “He always comes up big in the crucial moments.”