CHS one step closer to first conference championship

Even the weather can’t slow the Tigers down.

A steady mist blanketed the field Tuesday at Fair Acres Sports Complex, but the miserable playing conditions only seemed to frustrate Branson in this one.

“Coming out and jumping on top is a little frustrating for the other team,” said Carthage Head Coach Chris Rogers. “Once we had (Branson) down, we kept the pressure on.”

The Tigers received goals from five different players in a 9-0 win against their new Central Ozark Conference rivals.

This was the second time Carthage had beaten Branson this year. The Tigers knocked off the Pirates 8-0 while playing in the Christian County Shootout.

The Tigers moved the ball with  ease against Branson, which is fielding a team for the first time this season.

“We moved the ball really well,” Rogers said. “We came out and attacked.”

The Tigers are now 13-2 overall and one step closer to their first ever conference championship. Carthage is 5-0 in the COC with one conference game remaining against Nixa.

“Hopefully we can go (to Nixa) and do the same thing,” Rogers said. “Winning conference was one of our goals this season.”

Joe Curti scored three goals in the first half to help give the Tigers a 4-0 lead at the break. Two goals by Phillip DeVillers allowed the Tigers to pull away in the second half.

The Tigers return to action at 5 p.m. on Thursday against Cassville at home.