by Brian Turrel
The Bonner Springs Lady Braves celebrated their soccer seniors Tuesday evening. The warm glow of affection from their teammates was dimmed just slightly by a 6-1 defeat from the Piper Lady Pirates.
Other than the halftime ceremony, the Lady Pirates controlled most of the proceedings on the field. Piper’s speed up front gave them an advantage in playing over the top, and they ran out to a 4-0 halftime lead.
Bonner’s speedy striker Jenna Knight attracted multiple defenders when she got into an attacking space, but finally broke through with a second-half goal to get the Lady Braves on the board.
Piper’s over-anxious forwards got pulled back for offsides several times early in the second half, slowing their attack. Lady Braves goalkeeper Alex Rivers also recorded some timely saves to limit Piper to 2 goals in the half.
Piper’s Morgan Parker scored 2 goals in the match, the first of her varsity career. Brylie Reece also opened her scoring account with a first-half goal. Ryann Clark added two goals, and Sierra Montez one in the first half. Samantha Trumbo earned two assists.
Piper’s record improves to 11-3. They’re currently ranked fourth in the 5A East Region schools. The Pirates will play at Eudora on Thursday in their last regular season game. Bonner Springs finishes its regular season at 6-10. Both teams will be getting ready for the regional playoffs starting May 17.
