For the second time this season, the Apollo boys’ soccer team came out victorious in a 9th District clash with Owensboro Catholic. This time, though, the Eagles only edged out a 3-2 home win Thursday night over the Aces.
The first time around, a big second half ended with Apollo (7-6, 2-3 9th District) doling out a 10-0 dominant victory over Catholic (3-5-1, 0-5). In the rematch, a trio of previously suspended Aces’ players were back in action to help keep the score close throughout the night.
In the first half, it was the Aces who struck first. After a well-taken corner kick, the ball found the feet of sophomore defender Aaron Self, who managed to find the back of the net just four minutes into the match. Catholic remained on top through halftime.
The equalizer for Apollo came on a Harrison Bowman counter-attacking shot 10 minutes into the second period. Bowman was set up on a beautiful through ball with only the goalkeeper to beat, which he managed to do in decisive fashion.
Two more goals followed in quick succession for the Eagles. Justin Gillim scored one on a lofted ball that he managed to tuck in just under the crossbar. Gillim then set up the next score, a fizzing ground shot by Yo Shi Ya after a pass from the left flank.
Trailing 3-1 with 15 minutes to play, Owensboro Catholic converted another corner attempt, this time scored by Joe Fusco with a little under 11 minutes. However, the Aces were unable to score again.
Aces head coach Andy Donohoe was pleased with the resiliency and energy he felt his team delivered from start to finish.
“I thought our approach was excellent tonight,” Donohoe said. “We were looking for a bit of redemption after we folded against Apollo in the first game, and our guys delivered tonight. They still don’t see the result in the end, but the performances were brilliant. Our season was at a crossroads after the previous game and our guys have worked hard to stay on the path to success. I’m just proud of them.”
Apollo’s Ryan Poirer was pleased with the win but felt his team could have done a little more in the middle of the field to ensure success.
“It was a tough game tonight,” Poirer said. “Owensboro Catholic had a lot more energy than us, but thankfully our guys responded well in the second half. The middle of the field needed more movement tonight for us. We’re better than what we showed tonight, but at the end of the day you’re always going to be happy with a win.”
Apollo returns to action Tuesday at home against Ohio County. Owensboro Catholic hits the road Saturday to face Glasgow in the All “A” Classic state tournament.
Stay up to date on all your local sports coverage by following @OwensboroSports on Twitter and by liking us on Facebook.
__________
2019 soccer coverage is presented by Worth Insurance Group.
