Muncy records 10 saves

BY BRITTNI MCCOY
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

VERSAILLES — It may not have been Martin County’s prettiest win of the season, but it could prove to be one of its most useful.

The Lady Cardinals battled past Bluegrass United 4-2 Saturday at the Woodford County Soccer Complex to remain perfect at 9-0.

The matchup gave Martin County a change of scenery and a chance to work on a surface it will see again in the All “A” this week.

“I scheduled Bluegrass United on purpose to prepare us for the tournament,” Martin County coach Steven Gauze said. “They play on a grass field and usually are a well-organized team that knows how to play. With the All ‘A’ next week at Prestonsburg, which is also grass, we had a chance to really prepare to play Belfry.”

Martin County still managed four goals despite never settling into the offensive flow that has fueled its unbeaten start.

“We won the game 4-2 but can’t say it was our best game,” Gauze said. “We really struggled on the different surface and just couldn’t find our rhythm on offense. It was frustrating as a coach, but the girls were just as frustrated on the field.”

Jaz Jude, Anna Hinkle, Faith Caldwell and Hope Caldwell each found the back of the net for the Lady Cards.

Faith Caldwell added two assists to finish with four points. Annaleigh Davis handed out an assist.

The Lady Cards knew afterward there was plenty to clean up. Gauze used the tough outing as a lesson for a team that has grown accustomed to dominant victories.

“After the game, the girls were disappointed in how they played,” Gauze said. “I did tell them that all good teams have bad days, but the really good teams still find a way to win.”

While the offense had to grind for its chances, Martin County needed its goalkeeper more than it has in most games this season.

Bri Muncy answered the call.

Muncy faced 12 shots on goal and turned away 10, finishing with an 83.3 save percentage.

“Another positive was our goalkeeper who really stepped up,” Gauze said. “Generally, we don’t have a lot of shots taken against us, but Bri was busy.”

Her performance did not go unnoticed by her coach.

“She did everything she could to stop goals,” Gauze said. “I think she was on the ground more than standing.”

The four goals pushed Martin County’s season total to 75 through nine games. The Lady Cardinals have surrendered only six goals during their unbeaten start.

Martin County now turns its attention to the All “A” at Prestonsburg and a matchup with Belfry at 6 p.m. Sept. 9.