BRIDGEPORT -- Buckhannon-Upshur broke an 11-game winless streak against Bridgeport, claiming a 2-1 victory on Wednesday in girls high school soccer action.
For the Indians, it was the second consecutive game which a brilliant defensive effort and a possible shutout was spoiled by an opponent's fourth-quarter rally.
"We had opportunities when we were up 1-0. We simply need to capitalize on those chances, especially in the postseason," Bridgeport coach Amy Miller said.
Amanda Fischer gave Bridgeport a 1-0 lead in the first quarter on a solo run, a lead that held until the game's final minutes.
B-U keeper Whitney Hyre and Bridgeport keeper Jenna Palmer were dominant as the defenses turned in stellar performances. But, B-U mounted a final push that turned things around and ultimately ended the winless streak.
"We made some personnel moves before the fourth quarter in hopes of applying more pressure, and we told our girls if we could successfully execute some passes through their backline, that we had the speed to create some chances," B-U coach Tom Hasbrouck said.
Jordan Rusmisell put B-U on the board with 12:38 remaining, finishing off a solo run. The contest remained tied until the Cassie Webster found a streaking Melanie Komoni in the game's final minutes. Komoni drilled home the game-winner from point blank range at the 3:45 mark.
"We needed a win before the sectionals to get us back on track," Hasbrouck said.
"With each save in the final quarter, I was getting pumped up and more confident," Hyre said. "This win will definitely boost our morale."
B-U moved to 4-10-1, while Bridgeport fell to 8-5-5.
Now, Miller is now faced with getting her young team focused for the postseason after two close losses.
"I think we will be fine. We just need to refocus and play like we can," Miller said.
