THE PLAINS — The Athens girls soccer team took the field against the Warren Warriors with a mix of determination and anxiety on Tuesday evening at home. Though they had narrowly won 1-0 last year, that victory came at a cost—two ACL injuries, including one to player Jesse Vaughn. The memory of those injuries loomed large, and the Bulldogs were determined not just to win but to prove they could overcome the past.
That determination payed off directly to a dominant 5-0 victory over the Warriors at Joe Burrow Stadium.
The game began with both teams feeling the weight of last year’s encounter, but it was Athens who struck first. Quinn Murphy, showing incredible poise under pressure, opened the scoring with a clean finish, expertly assisted by Khyla Brannon.
Vaughn, eager to make her mark after her injury, secured a beautiful breakaway and found herself one-on-one with the Warriors’ goalie, thanks to a perfectly timed pass from Jo Bertuna.
The third goal was a spectacle in itself, with Ella Chapman launching a rocket from the 35-yard line. The ball soared through the air and dipped just under the crossbar, leaving the Warriors’ goalkeeper helpless.
Murphy wasn’t done yet, adding her second goal of the match with a finish that showcased her instincts and precision. The final goal came courtesy of Larkin Mingus, who sealed the game with a strike that epitomized the team’s cohesive play and unrelenting spirit.
The defense was nothing short of stellar, too, recording their third consecutive shutout of the season. The backline, anchored by Chapman, Brannon, Calla Martino, Adelaide Littell, AJ Knapp, and Arlee Foughty, blocked every attempt the Warriors made to breach their defense. Their solid performance played a crucial role in securing the victory, ensuring that the Bulldogs not only dominated on offense but remained impenetrable at the back.
As the final whistle blew, the Athens players embraced, their nerves replaced by a sense of redemption. This win was about more than just points on a scoreboard—it was about resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief that no setback is too great to overcome.
In the JV matchup, the Athens Bulldogs faced a tough challenge against the Warren Warriors, ultimately falling 1-3. Despite the loss, there were moments of promise for the young Bulldogs, highlighted by a goal from Janey Lucas.
The Bulldogs’ next game is at Joe Burrow Stadium, JV at 6 pm, and V at 7:30 pm against Fairfield Union on September 3rd.
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