MHS soccer: Owls capture first NCMC title

Midfielder Andy Suarez (19) and the Owls' other eight seniors helped bring home the program's first NCMC title.
(Chris Allen/Democrat-News) [Order this photo]

The only blemish on that accomplishment is that the Owls will have to share the crown with Moberly -- which won three one-point matches against them, two in league play. Marshall had previously finished as high as second place, going 6-1 in 2002, as Rock Bridge claimed the title -- which it had every year from 1995 to its withdrawal from the league after 2003.

"It was a goal of theirs to win a conference championship for the first time in school history," declared Owls head coach Josh Posegate. "We are excited about that, and the fact that a whole new season starts on Saturday."

Junior Jon Najera scored both of Marshall's first-half goals, converting a pass from senior Pedro Ruiz in the 12th minute and then clanging a shot off the goalpost in the 26th minute for his 23rd tally of the season.

Sophomore Erik Moreņo scored off an assist by junior Omar Farfan midway through the second half, with senior Alex Tapia feeding Ruiz for a goal a minute later.

The Pirates (10-13-1, 5-7 NCMC) had six shots on goal, junior Jacob Phillips stopping them all for his 10th shutout. Phillips has saved 94.9 percent of shot attempts and is averaging 0.60 goals per match.

The Owls (18-4, 10-2) are the No. 3 seed in the Class 2, District 7 Tournament, which they begin Saturday at Boonville against Kirksville. Marshall is trying to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2003.

"Hopefully, we can take this momentum into Saturday and start a little winning streak," Posegate said. Regardless, "I'm very proud of the effort of the boys this year."