The Warsaw boys soccer team continued its impressive postseason success over the past few years in a big way on Saturday afternoon, as the Tigers took down Fort Wayne Northrop 2-1 at Huntington North High School to win its second sectional championship in a row. Warsaw heads into regionals with a 15-3-1 record.
The Tigers scored both of their goals in the first half, with both scores coming off of the right foot of senior striker Noah VanPuffelen. On VanPuffelen’s first goal, a beautiful lead pass by Callen O’Brien set up a footrace between the striker and Northrop keeper. Van Puffelen would win the sprint, booting one past the diving arms of the goalie and into the back of the net for the opener.
The second goal of the game was just as impressive as the first. A shot by Warsaw’s Eduardo Escutia was deflected by the Bruins’ keeper, who put himself way out of position to make the initial stop. A long rebound opportunity arose for VanPuffelen, who took full advantage, sending a lofting shot over everyone’s head and into the back of the net to double the Tigers’ lead.
Now possessing a two-goal lead with 40 minutes to go, Warsaw continued to stay aggressive, not allowing Northrop to attempt to chip away at the lead. The Bruins were able to get one back in the second half, but it was not enough to steal the trophy away from the Tigers.
Warsaw will play its regional semifinal game at home at the Tiger Soccer Complex on Wednesday at 6 p.m. The Tigers will take on an unbeaten (14-0-5) Noblesville side. The Millers defeated Warsaw 2-1 in last year’s regional semifinal contest on their way to a 3A state championship.