Red Demons’ perfect season spoiled by Olathe West
Photo courtesy of KSHSAA
WICHITA–Olathe West scored twice in a span of less than 30 seconds early in the first half, giving them the push they needed to outlast Dodge City 3-2 at Stryker’s indoor facility Friday, and ending the Red Demons’ bid for the program’s third undefeated season.
Friday’s match was moved indoors just more than an hour prior to kickoff because of heavy rain and high winds.
The Owls jumped out to a 2-0 lead with a header from Sam DeLong, followed less than a minute later by Gage Daniels’ rocket after a Red Demon turnover deep in their own third.
Dodge City responded though, first with a goal by Aron Martinez on a free kick from about 20 yards out. Then, less than 10 minutes later, Angel Lopez notched his eighth goal of the playoffs on a short-range effort to knot the match at 2.
Just prior to halftime, Braxton Arpachinda skipped a shot off the turf and over Red Demon keeper Francisco Solis to give the Owls a 3-2 lead. That would prove to be the game-winner.
Olathe West fought off several late Dodge attacks in the final 10 minutes to secure the win and a spot in Saturday’s 6A title game, giving them a shot to defend last year’s championship.
The Red Demons fall to 19-1 with the loss.
Dodge City will play in Saturday’s consolation game against the either Mill Valley or Washburn Rural. Kickoff is scheduled for 12 p.m. CT at Stryker Sports Complex in Wichita.
