Polk County Middle continued its strong Blue Ridge Conference campaign Wednesday, defeating Rugby Middle 3-1 behind a balanced scoring attack and aggressive first-half performance.
The Wolverines (6-2-1) wasted little time taking control as Foster Meyer found the net in the seventh minute. The scoring sequence began when Alec Fine attempted to play a ball over Rugby’s back line. Though the pass fell short, Meyer’s pressure forced a defensive miscue, allowing him to collect the ball, dribble around the goalkeeper and finish from close range.
Polk Middle doubled its advantage in the 14th minute when Rhys Jackson drew a penalty kick after skillfully beating three defenders. Owen Justice converted the spot kick to give the Wolverines a 2-0 lead they would take into halftime.
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Angel Roman provided what proved to be a crucial insurance goal in the 35th minute, launching a spectacular 40-yard strike that sailed over the Rugby goalkeeper and just under the crossbar.
Rugby Middle (1-7) mounted pressure in the final 20 minutes, earning five corner kicks during that span and breaking through with a goal in the 46th minute. But Polk Middle’s early cushion proved too much to overcome.
“We played well in the first half and could have put the match away if we had taken advantage of our chances,” said Polk Middle head coach Lennox Charles. “The second half was ugly on our part, but we needed to bounce back, so we are happy for the win.”
Polk Middle will be back in action on Tuesday, hosting Apple Valley Middle in a 4:30 p.m. match.
