By Grant Barrett, Ad Astra Radio
TOWANDA, Kan. – In a battle of two of the top three girls soccer teams in the West Region of Class 4-1A, the McPherson Bullpups were looking for their third win out of their last four road games, but two second-half goals from Circle Thunderbirds would edge the Pups late, 2-1.
“This game was extremely competitive and felt like a post season game.” noted Head Coach Chris Adrian following the match. The Bullpups would take a 1-0 in the first half when Becca Lulloff beat the keeper to find the back of the net, “She plays so hard and never gives up on a ball.” said Coach Adrian, mentioning the freshman also recorded three goals in the JV match.
In the defensive battle, Adrian credited Sadie Law, for controlling a number of 50/50 balls, and in goal, he said, “Ella Buschbom made few excellent saves and was brave coming out of her goal.”
After tying the game at 1-1 with less than 10 minutes to play, the Thunderbirds would collect momentum late in front of their home crowd, and would strike on the go-ahead goal just 8-minutes later, which gave the Pups less than a minute to tie the game, as they were unable to do so, falling 2-1.
“This loss definitely stings because we were so close to closing out the game,” said Coach Adrian, adding, “It’s an experience we must learn from.” Although it was a tough loss to a league opponent, he was proud of the way the girls kept their composure and battled on the field.
The Lady Bullpups move to 8-4 overall, and will return home on Tuesday, to renew their rivalry with the Buhler Crusaders. The varsity match will begin at 4:30 p.m. The JV will follow at approximately 6:00 p.m.
