McPHERSON, Kan. – The McPherson Bullpup boys soccer team used timely goals in each the first and second half and survived a barrage of shots on goal late to pick up a 2-0 shutout win over Salina South at home on Thursday night.
Just seven minutes into the game, Jackson Martin scored the first goal for McPherson to put them up 1-0. The first half played out to that score as McPherson had a couple of other opportunities to extend their lead, but they were unable to capitalize.
The second half was the same result as the first, but the journey to the result was much different. With 10 minutes left in the game, Jameson Bowers had a perfect cross shot on the right side of the goal that Salina South accidentally redirected into their own goal to put the Bullpups up 2-0. Despite the two goal lead, the last 10 minutes of the game were less than comfortable for McPherson.
“The second half was about grit and perseverance,” said coach Chris Adrian. “As the team began to fatigue, Salina (South) grew into the game and started putting constant pressure on our goal and Hunter Schroeder. Bend but don’t break pretty much sums up the final 20 minutes.”
Two minutes after McPherson went up 2-0, Schroeder made an incredible save on a penalty kick to keep the shutout alive. With his teammates celebrating, South immediately had another opportunity and Schroeder made another outstanding save. For the night, Schroeder finished with eight saves, continuing an outstanding start to the season.
McPherson is now 4-2 overall. The win was a milestone for Chris Adrian as he picked up his 200th victory of his career at McPherson High. In his 17 seasons as the head coach, he is now 200-101-10.
Of note, the Bullpup JV also picked up a 3-1 win over Salina South. McPherson will be back at home for two games next week as they host Buhler on Tuesday and Newton on Thursday.
