It was a busy weekend on the pitch as several area boys’ soccer teams competed in OHSAA tournament action.
In their third matchup of the season, Calvary Christian came out on top when it mattered most, defeating Jackson Center 2–0 in the first round.
Junior Brett Gildow opened the scoring on a setup from senior Nehemiah Dillon, who later sealed the victory with a calm penalty kick. The Spartans’ defense, anchored by seniors Lincoln Roell and Tanner Hurley, along with sophomores Gavin Householder and goalkeeper Brody Prall, held firm to preserve the clean sheet.
Calvary advances to face Preble Shawnee on Tuesday.
The West Liberty-Salem Tigers also moved on, shutting out Indian Lake 2–0 in Division IV sectional action. Lance Campbell and Caleb Ling each scored second-half goals, with assists from Miles Christison and Conner Leichty. Keeper Tucker Searles made five saves to secure his 12th shutout of the season.
The Tigers, now 16–2–1, will take on top-seeded Kettering Alter in the district semifinals Tuesday at 7 p.m.
Meanwhile, Benjamin Logan’s season came to an end with a 4–0 loss to Waynesville in the second round.
Despite the defeat, it was a historic year for the Raiders, who scored more goals than ever before and captured their fourth Central Buckeye Conference title in six years. Coach Jamie Hughes praised his team’s resilience and senior leadership, calling it “a special season for sure.”
The Raiders finished 12–6–1.
