Two Central Ozark Conference teams that have been riding high collided in Republic Tuesday, and they deadlocked for 100 minutes before one of them caught a break. Nixa sneaked a game-winning penalty kick off the fingertips of a diving Xavier Ulshafer to beat Republic in a shootout, 1-0 (5-4).
“I said if there’s ever a time to be not completely disappointed after a loss — because it sucks to lose — this is it,” said coach Jesus Zuniga. ” I’m proud of their effort, I’m proud of everything they did. For us to shut out a Nixa team that’s scored 13 goals in the last two games shows a lot of spirit in these boys.”
The teams swapped momentum throughout the first half, with both teams missing opportunities to take the lead. In the second half, Republic pushed forward consistently, controlled possession, but failed to put the ball in the net. Santino Stiglianese nearly put Republic on top late in regulation, but his shot grazed the left post.
In the second overtime period, Stiglianese nearly scored again, but Nixa goalkeeper Mason Adair came off his line in time to make a save as Stiglianese attempted to slide-kick the ball past him.
Zuniga said the shutout through 100 minutes was a “true collective effort,” and he believes the Tigers can build off the potential they showed, despite the loss.
Republic falls to 6-5. The Tigers travel to Monett Thursday to meet the 10-2 Cubs
