Jasper claims win over Center 1-0
Kipp scores winning goal in victory
By GEORGIA PURDY Newsboy Correspondent

The Jasper Lady Bulldog soccer team defeated Center 1-0 Tuesday and fell to Palestine 4-1 Friday.

"Jasper dominated the time of possession but because of outstanding play by the Center goalie, was turned away after deep penetrations often during the first half," coach Ron Vickers said.

With about 10 minutes left in the first half, Caroline Kipp scored.

"Caroline made another run down the left side of the field, maneuvered past the defense and kicked an arching shot that found all net," Vickers said. "That proved to be the deciding score of the night."

Center played tough defense during the second half but spent very little time on Jasper's end of the field.

"They continued to play tough defense, turning away numerous drives by the Jasper forwards and wings," Vickers said. "We held off their final attempts with strong defense by Amanda Miesch at sweeper and right defensive wing Morgan Marx. Once again, senior Valerie Dufner played a solid game at midfield, subbing for an injured Jessica Alvis."

Unfortunately, senior midfielder Rachel Vickers was injured when she was tackled with a slide. That leaves the Lady Bulldog without both starting center midfielders.

Jasper's improved strength really showed in the Palestine game Friday. In the first match of the season, Palestine beat Jasper 7- 0. The Ladies proved to be a lot better on their home field even though they lost 4-1.

After losing the flip, however, Jasper's goalie was forced to look straight into the setting sun all during the first half. The Lady Bulldogs held off serious attempts to score during the first 20 minutes, but Palestine finally took a shot that goalie Marcie Ratcliff could only partially block.

Then late in the half, Palestine scored on a called handball by a Jasper player. The free kick was good from just outside the 18-yard box. That put the score at 2-0 in Palestine's favor.

Jasper played excellent defense during the second half and also took several shots on the Palestine goal.

"We were unable to connect until late in the game on a beautiful assist by Morgan Marx and a great finish by Caroline Kipp," Vickers said.

Palestine's second half scores came on a shot that was partially deflected by the Jasper goalie Marcie Ratcliff and a penalty kick.

Jasper played Jacksonville last night and will be at home against Livingston Friday at 5:30 p.m.