McPHERSON, Kan. – The McPherson High School boys soccer team punched their ticket to the 4-1A State Tournament for the second straight season as they defeated Classical School of Wichita 2-0 in the 4-1A Regional championship match at McPherson High School Stadium on Thursday night.
After a playing to a 0-0 draw through the first 40 minutes, McPherson finally found the back of the goal just over eight minutes into the second half when Yahir Valadez put one through to give them a 1-0 lead. The Bullpups scored again on a goal by Mason Eisenbarth assisted by Valadez with 27:33 remaining in regulation.
The 2-0 lead held through a long second half lightning delay for the Bullpups. McPherson finished with four shots on goal and their goalkeeper Hunter Schroeder made four saves to preserve the shutout.
“It took us a little time to settle into the game, but as the first half progressed, we continued to get better and more comfortable,” said McPherson coach Chris Adrian. “Classical did an excellent job of limiting our attack, but we made some important adjustments at halftime that helped create more space for some of our key players.”
It was the third win this season for the Bullpups over Classical as they had won 5-0 at the Maize South Tournament in September and 5-2 more recently at home earlier this month.
“Beating a quality team three times in one season is incredibly difficult, and I could not be more proud of this group,” said Adrian. “More than anything, I’m just happy we’ve earned another opportunity to be together and compete for another day.”
McPherson is now 13-5 on the season as they head into the 4-1A Quarterfinals. This is the 17th time in program history making it to at least the State quarterfinals and the fourth time in the past five seasons.
