Republic’s soccer team dropped a 2-0 decision to Nixa Thursday night. The Eagles struck early and added a late insurance goal to secure the win.
Nixa capitalized on a defensive miscue by Republic to open the scoring about six minutes into the match. The Tigers failed to clear the ball, allowing Ryker Pabst to steal possession. Pabst fired a shot from the left hash mark into the right side of the net to put Nixa up 1-0.
Republic had chances to equalize throughout the first half. Elijah Phiri missed wide right on a 25-yard attempt with about 24 minutes remaining. The Tigers also earned multiple corner kicks but couldn’t convert.
In the final minute before halftime, Nixa goalkeeper Mason Adair made a leaping save on a header by Caleb Miclea off a Republic corner kick to keep the Eagles on top.
The second half saw Nixa ramp up offensive pressure. Republic keeper Koal Williams was called into action repeatedly, making saves at 37:40, 32:30, and 30:36 to keep his team in the game.
Republic’s best chance to level the score came with about 27 minutes left. Diego Zuniga dribbled up the right side through the Nixa defense and fired a shot across the goal. Adair made a diving save, just tipping the ball so it rolled wide left, to preserve the lead.
Williams made another leaping save for Republic with 21 minutes remaining, but Nixa doubled its advantage shortly after. Keagan Pycior headed in a corner kick at the 20:40 mark to make it 2-0.
The loss drops Republic to 5-6 on the season. The Tigers host Waynesville on September 24.