The resurgent Lady Tigers posted their third consecutive shutout Tuesday, this time at Joplin in a 3–0 win over the Lady Eagles. Molly Blades scored an early goal for Republic, and Kendra Phiri added goals in each half as the Lady Tigers picked up their second conference win.
After a six-match losing streak, Republic has reeled off three straight victories. The Lady Tigers have outscored their opponents 13–0 during those matches. It’s the first time since 2019 that Republic has shut out three opponents in a row. The program record for consecutive shutouts is five, achieved in 2013 and 2017.
Coach Jesus Zuniga says multiple factors have contributed to the turnaround.
“[We’re] trusting one another — that’s the biggest part. [We’re] sharing the ball. They understand that if they’re being selfish, they’re probably gonna come off (the field),” Zuniga said. “And then again, for me it’s getting healthier. We saw some of the young kids come on tonight too, so that’s a huge help.”
Blades put Republic on top 17 minutes into the game with an unassisted goal. Phiri followed that up with a goal five minutes later, thanks to a good assist by Ava Brown in the middle of the field. She found Phiri on the left side of the box. Phiri drew the goalkeeper, then patiently knocked it past her into the net.
Republic put the game away with about 18 minutes remaining of the second half on a second goal by Phiri. That one was unassisted. Zuniga praised Phiri after the game for playing well in an unfamiliar position.
“I’m putting people in different positions that they’re not used to and making them a little uncomfortable, so they grow that way. That’s literally what I just told Kendra is I’m going to push her… because that’s the only say she’s going to get better,” Zuniga said.
Despite three straight wins, Zuniga said there’s still more to achieve.
“We’re riding this wave, and we’re going to keep doing it, but I said, ‘Smile tonight, but we’re going back to work tomorrow.'”
Republic improves to 5-7. The Lady Tigers play at Carthage Thursday.