Tigers Topple Manchester In 2015 Non-Conference Finale

Emma Box recorded two of Wittenberg's shots in a 3-1 win over Manchester. File Photo | Nick Falzerano
Emma Box recorded two of Wittenberg's shots in a 3-1 win over Manchester. File Photo | Nick Falzerano

ROANOKE, Ind. - The Wittenberg Tigers put the finishing touches on the non-conference portion of the 2015 season with a 3-1 road win over the Manchester Spartans.

The win improved Wittenberg's record to 5-4-1 overall, heading into the home stretch of the season that includes seven straight league opponents in the month of October. The Tigers opened North Coast Athletic Conference (NCAC) action with a 3-1 loss at Kenyon on Sept. 26.

Manchester fell to 2-6 on the season.

Things started auspiciously for Wittenberg as Manchester allowed an own goal less than two minutes into the game. Freshman Megan Davis (Canal Winchester, Ohio/Pickerington Central) made it 2-0 with a goal in the 26th minute. Senior Mackenzie Bolon (Columbus, Ohio/Bexley) was credited with the assist.

Wittenberg essentially put the game out of reach 4:47 into the second half as junior Morgan Jones (Louisville, Ky./Atherton) netted a goal off a feed from freshman Emily Thomas (Centerville, Ohio/Centerville). Manchester would pull one goal back in the 64th minute, but the Tigers held on from that point.

Davis led Wittenberg with five shots in the game, including three on goal. Six other players contributed two shots apiece as the Tigers held a 22-14 overall advantage in attempts on frame.

In goal, sophomore Hannah Wilson (Pickerington, Ohio/North) kept a clean sheet over the opening 45 minutes and senior Maggie Grieser (St. Paris, Ohio/Graham) played the second half. Each Tiger goalkeeper made three saves in the game.

Written By: Ryan Maurer