Morgan County’s soccer teams split with Pike County on Friday, April 4, on the road in the final region games for both teams.
The Dogs (11-2, 9-1) defeated the Pirates (7-5, 6-4) in a close 1-0 decision to secure the season sweep.
Earlier in the season, Morgan County’s boys defeated Pike County 2-1 in another close match. The Dogs found a way to edge the Pirates again behind a strong defensive performance by senior goalkeeper Blake Downs.
Downs kept Pike County out of the net to secure his eighth shutout of the season. Talented Pirate sophomore Carter York got three shots on goal, but Downs, who will play soccer in college, stopped every attempt.
On the offensive end, Morgan County senior Chase Link scored on an assist from fellow senior Carson Keener.
Morgan County’s boys had already secured the region title before the match against the Pirates, but the victory improved their league record to 9-1. The Dogs also entered spring break riding a five-game winning streak.
According to Scorbord.com, Morgan County ranks No. 1 overall in Class AA as the season nears its end.
The girls’ game was a completely different story for Morgan County, though.
Top-ranked Pike County (13-2, 1-0) defeated the No. 4 Lady Dogs (10-3, 8-2) by a score of 4-1 to complete the sweep. The Lady Pirates also knocked off Morgan County 2-1 in the first game on March 14.
Pike County’s girls controlled the pace on the pitch, demonstrating why they are the top team in Class AA, as Morgan County struggled to stop their offensive attack. They got goals from several different players in the win.
The Lady Dogs managed to score one goal against Pike County’s keeper, but it wasn’t enough. The Lady Pirates kept the experienced offensive unit of Jaden Young, Mia McClain, Abigail Benoff, and Chloe Cook in check.
Pike County’s girls locked up the No. 1 seed heading into the playoffs while Morgan County fell short of winning the region championship. However, the Lady Dogs have won four of their last six games with only two left.
Morgan County’s boys and girls have two games remaining this season. They will host ACE Charter of Macon at home on April 15 before traveling to nearby Oconee County on April 17 for the regular season finale.