Republic opened its Central Ozark Conference season with a difficult loss at home to Willard, 4-2. Republic trailed 2-1 at halftime, tied the score about seven minutes into the second half, then gave up two goals in the final 18 minutes.
The go-ahead score by Willard came on an own goal by Republic. Another goal on a penalty kick by Charlae Cowan accounted for Willard’s final goal.
Republic had taken a 1-0 lead on a goal by Paige Elsenraat with 29:01 remaining in the first half. Willard scored two goals before halftime to take a 2-1 lead at the break.
Kendra Phiri’s unassisted goal with 33:04 remaining tied the score. Republic had an opportunity to take the lead after that, but missed a penalty kick.
The Lady Tigers have lost six straight. They are 2-7 overall and 0-1 in the COC. Willard improves to 5-1 overall and 1-0 in the conference.