In a key boys soccer match Thursday for positioning in the Oregon West Conference standings, Philomath High defeated visiting Newport, 1-0.
The Warriors improve to 3-2 in the league and are currently behind Stayton’s 4-0-1 and North Marion’s 4-1 in the standings. Newport dropped to fourth at 2-2-1.
After the game’s start was delayed due to lightning in the vicinity, Philomath took an early lead with a goal in the third minute. On the play, sophomore Sammy Hernandez won the ball and then set up junior Jacob Hernandez on what developed into a breakaway scoring opportunity. He buried the shot for what turned out to be the game’s lone goal.
Philomath’s defense posted its fifth shutout of the season.
“Jake (McGaughy) was solid at the back with many saves,” PHS coach Dave Ellis said. “Dreyton’s (Nuño) work rate and sacrifice set the tone for the team.”
Philomath goes to 7-2 overall and as of Thursday night was sitting at No. 8 in the OSAA rankings. The Warriors are scheduled to host Sweet Home at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday.
Philomath 1, Newport 0
Thursday, Oct. 9, at Philomath HS
| Teams (Record) | 1 | 2 | F |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newport (5-3-1, 2-2-1) | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Philomath (7-2, 3-2) | 1 | 0 | 1 |
First Half — 1, Philomath, J. Hernandez (S. Hernandez), 3rd minute.