Republic scored twice in each half to defeat Willard 4-0 Thursday night, sending off five seniors with a victory in their final home match.
Will Pinnell opened the scoring with 35:48 left in the first half on an assist from Maddox Aldridge. Senior Diego Zuniga extended the lead three minutes later after a 50-yard punt from goalkeeper Koal Williams cleared midfield, setting up Zuniga’s goal and earning Williams a rare goalkeeper assist.
Mason Tackett made it 3-0 with 37:17 remaining in the second half. After a corner kick, senior Caleb Miclea won the ball from a Willard defender and played it to Tackett, who struck it out of the air with his left foot past the Willard keeper.
Pinnell added his second goal late in the match off an assist from senior Miles Thomas. Thomas received the ball at midfield and played it ahead to Pinnell, who beat the last defender and slotted it home.
The Tigers’ defense, including senior Porter Bollinger, recorded its third shutout in five matches. Williams finished with 10 saves.
Coach Jesus Zuniga credited senior night emotions for his team’s performance.
“It was their last home game. So I think that had a lot to do with it,” Zuniga said. “I told the players, let’s send these guys off on a high note. And then I told (the seniors), let’s leave this program in good hands.”
The Tigers honored Diego Zuniga, Thomas, Miclea, Bollinger, and team manager Jaysen Rodriguez before the match.
“What they’ve invested in the program, it’s starting to show now,” Zuniga said. “They just are starting to trust each other. And it’s fun to watch. And I’m not ready for it to end. I really love this class.”
Republic improved to 9-15, while Willard dropped to 15-9. Republic is back in action at Parkview on October 29.