by Jeffrey Wickerham
It was a warm, beautiful evening in Morgan County, as the Tri-Valley Scotties took on the Morgan Raiders in an MVL battle. The Scotties scored within the first 40 seconds, on a beautiful pass from senior Sam Schott to junior Yuvi Bastoli, who buried it in the back of the net. The Raiders seemed to wake up after the quick strike from the Scotties, not allowing any goals for the remainder of the first half.
The second half started how most of the first half went, without any goals allowed. Tri-Valley broke through in the 68th minute when senior Gael Oseguera had an absolutely beautiful cross to the running Chris Carpenter (sophomore), who headed into the back of the net. Then, in the 79th minute Yuvi and Sam connected again again, but this time it was Sam assisting Yuvi’s goal.
The shutdown defense led by seniors Devin Watts, Camden Wickerham, and Ethan McClellan and sophomore Oliver Baker, made it tough for Morgan to get any shots on goal. Senior Gage Hindel relieved Baker midway through the 2nd half and continued the strong defensive effort. When those shots did get through, keeper Owen Harney was ready, stopping all 3 which found their way to him, recording his first shutout of the 2023 season.
Lewis Mozena, Dominic Dale, Nick Flarey, Ty Young, Laetyn Holdsworth, and Corbin Ryan contributed in the midfield throughout the game, constantly putting pressure on Morgan. Most of the 50/50 balls were won by the Scotties, who also had many great 1-2 passes, confusing the Raider defense.
Next up, the Scotties will host the Sheridan Generals, in their first home contest of the season on Thursday, August 31. The JV team will kick off at 5:30 to play only one, 36 minute half, with the Varsity squad to follow. Hope to see you at Wolford Park!