Two first-half goals would be just enough to get the victory for the Monett Lady Cubs at Aurora Tuesday, as the Big 8 Conference rivalry proved to extend beyond football and basketball.
"Our girls have been waiting for this game ever since they saw the schedule," said Monett girl's soccer head coach Neal Bluel after his team's victory. "This one means a little more than the rest to them, especially the seniors."
A senior for Monett got the Lady Cubs on the scoreboard at the 18 minute mark of the first half, as Isel Trujillo found the back of the net to put Monett up 1-0 early.
Aurora had two close shot attempts within 30 seconds of each other at the eight minute mark, but goalie Victoria Gutirrez stopped both to keep the Lady Houn's scoreless.
"We are passing so much better," said Aurora head coach Carrie Stone. "We were doing better centering the ball but just couldn't get the open shots to go our way."
Monett's second goal came in the final minute of the first half when junior Sarah Childress hit a rebound shot into the goal and give the Lady Cubs some breathing room.
"Our forwards are very strong," said Bluel, "and tonight they played really strong offensively."
Aurora (0-3) scored its first goal of the season at the 15 minute mark of the second half, as Trinity Misener took the pass from Sam Sharpe and promptly put it in the back of the net.
The Lady Houn's were unable to score again, however, and fell in the early-season rivalry match with the Lady Cubs (2-4).
"Our girls know they can play with them (Monett)," Stone said. "They will have the chance later this season to get a W against them."
Gutirrez had 9 saves at goalie for Monett, while Aurora goalie Victoria Johnson gave up one goal and saved 13 shots on goal.
