Republic edged Neosho 2–1 in overtime Thursday night, earning its seventh win in the past eight matches. It was the first time this season the Tigers allowed a goal and still came away with a victory. It was also the second consecutive overtime win for Republic in COC West play, after beating Webb City on penalty kicks Tuesday.
Mason Tackett put Republic on top early, scoring in the 14th minute on a setup from Angel Urquiza. The goal capped a strong start for the Tigers, who controlled possession and generated several quality chances in the opening stretch.
Neosho tied the match midway through the first half, and the teams traded opportunities from there. Republic outshot Neosho 18–13 overall and held an 8–7 edge in shots on goal. The Tigers also earned five corner kicks to the Wildcats’ one but couldn’t find the go-ahead goal in regulation.
In overtime, Maddox Aldridge delivered the winner. He beat three defenders on the right side of the box and fired a bullet across the face of the goalkeeper and into the left side of the net to seal the 2–1 win.
Koal Williams finished with six saves in goal for Republic, posting an 85.7 percent save rate. Tackett led the Tigers with six shots, while Aldridge added four. Urquiza tallied two shots and an assist.
Republic (now 7-1 in its last eight) is back in action Saturday for a makeup game on the road against Waynesville.
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