Republic took an early lead at the Branson Shootout on Friday but couldn’t hold it, falling 2-1 to Rogers Heritage (Ark.) after the War Eagles scored twice in four minutes to overcome the early deficit.
Andie Wistrom scored off a deflection in the 23rd minute to open the scoring. Heritage equalized two minutes later, then made it 2-1 in the 28th minute, heading in a corner kick that Awbree Berning initially saved. The deflection found its way past Berning and into the net.
Heritage controlled much of the final 15 minutes of the first half, forcing three saves from Berning. Emma Hoodenpyle came up with a sliding block to deny one of the better Heritage chances.
The second half was more even. Wistrom tested the Heritage keeper three more times. Macey Mitchell had a pair of dangerous looks late, and Paige Elsenraat put a shot on goal midway through the half, but Republic couldn’t find an equalizer.
Republic earned a corner in the final minute and had a chance, but a header by Mitchell missed the goal and Heritage closed it out.
Republic falls to 2-3. The Lady Tigers are back in action at Branson on Saturday.
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