WOMEN’S SOCCER

The Huntington women’s soccer team closed out their non-conference slate in emphatic fashion Wednesday afternoon with a record-tying 11-0 thrashing of Manchester at Good Field.

The Foresters wasted no time asserting control, erupting for five goals in the first 25 minutes and never looking back. By the break, HU had already built a 7-0 cushion before cruising to the program’s most lopsided victory in 13 years.

The Foresters’ 11 goals tie the program record for both goals in a game and margin of victory, matching an 11-0 decision over Andrews in 2012.

The offensive onslaught was a balanced effort, with ten different Foresters recording either a goal or an assist. Jianna Simons struck twice in just over a one-minute span midway through the first half, while Sophie Shepherd also finished with a brace to highlight HU’s offensive onslaught.

Ella Hartman netted two goals of her own, including HU’s fifth tally in the 25th minute, while Elana McGinnis opened the scoring just six minutes in. Rounding out the scoring were Jada Mia Lee, Vivian Blye and Alaina Hanson, with the team’s ninth goal coming via a Spartan own goal.

Playmaking was just as widespread as the scoring. Courtney Tobin set up three goals, Ella Theard handed out two dimes with Shepherd, Blye, Ellie Cirrincione, and Hartman each chipping in an assist. In all, 21 Foresters saw action in the victory, underscoring the total team effort.

Senior keeper Tara Robinson secured the clean sheet with two saves against the Spartans’ only shots of the day.

“Today we showed what happens when we trust each other and play as one family,” noted Coach Keaton Albert. “This was a positive response from Saturday – players stepped up and everyone made an impact. This was a solid win and one we will use to grow. We’re grateful to God for guiding us and we’re hungry for what’s ahead in conference.”

With the win, Huntington improves to 5-2 and heads into Crossroads League play on a high note. The Foresters will have a week off before hosting Marian on September 24 at King Stadium in their conference opener.