Republic soccer coach Kevin Hauck has always preferred his teams play on the thick grass field north of the high school rather than the artificial turf at Republic’s stadium. Thursday, in his last regular-season game as head coach, he got something he prefers even more: a win.
The Lady Tigers exploded for six goals, their second-highest scoring output of the season, whipping Springfield Central 6-1 in the regular-season finale.
“I just wanted to win, honestly,” Hauck said about what was going through his mind as the game unfolded. “This field has grown, it’s beautiful, (and) it’s one of the best grass fields in the area. But (I was) wanting us to play well and prepare for districts, so that was a lot of what was in my mind – how can we win this game and how can we prepare for Saturday at the same time?”
Republic led 2-0 at halftime, thanks to goals by Josalyn Weymuth and Cadence Lugar. Weymuth headed the ball in off a corner kick by Callie Jaquess. Lugar scored in the final minute of the half to give Republic a two-goal lead.
In the second half, Molly Blades scored with an assist from Josalyn Weymuth. Lugar scored again, assisted by Kendra Phiri. Blades scored her second goal, assisted by Lugar. And Emma Jaquess scored to finish out the scoring.
Republic finishes its regular season with a record of 8-14. The Lady Tigers are seeded 5th in the Class 4 District 5 tournament. They will play #4 seed Carthage at noon Saturday at Kickapoo.