Braxton Pugh scored the game-winning goal in the 93rd minute of double overtime to propel the Emporia High soccer team to a thrilling 1-0 victory over Piper on Tuesday at Spartan Field.
After battling through a scoreless regulation and first overtime period, Pugh finally broke the stalemate in the second extra session, beating the Piper goalkeeper to send the Spartans home with the win.
The victory marks the seventh clean sheet of the season for EHS goalkeeper Braylon File, who expressed excitement over the shutout while noting that the defense still has room to improve.
Head coach Victor Ibarra added that while the Spartans created numerous offensive opportunities throughout the match, many narrowly missed the back of the net before Pugh’s decisive strike.
With the win, Emporia improves to 8-2 on the season. The Spartans return to action Thursday when they host Pittsburg for Senior Night.
