Polk County Middle got two first-half goals and a stronger defensive effort after the break Monday to earn a 2-0 victory at Rugby Middle in Mills River.
Both Polk goals came off Rugby defenders.
The Wolverines took the lead with 13:35 remaining in the first half. Polk served a corner kick into the six-yard box, where players from both teams challenged for the ball before it went into the net off a Rugby player.
Polk doubled the advantage later in the half on a similar play. A cross from the right side reached a Rugby defender first, but the attempted header went past the goalkeeper and into the net for another own goal.
That sent Polk into halftime with a 2-0 advantage.
Rugby generated much more of the attacking play in the second half, but Polk’s defense responded. Abbott Shukha, Sergio Flores, Sully Searcy, Rhys Jackson and Josiah Collier helped withstand the increased pressure and preserve the shutout.
The win improved Polk County Middle to 3-0 overall and 3-0 in conference play. The Wolverines return home Wednesday to face Apple Valley Middle.
