On Wednesday, Apr. 15, the Meridian Mustangs defeated the Kettle Run Cougars 16-5, improving their regular season record to a perfect 8-0.
During the first quarter, the Cougars were able to keep pace with the Mustangs, but it was clear Meridian had the upper hand. By the end of the first quarter, the Mustangs led 4-3.
Senior Jack Moore’s second goal of the game kicked off the scoring in the second quarter and marked an incredible milestone. The score was the 100th goal of Moore’s high school career, an incredible feat. Postgame, head coach William Stewart was full of praise for his star player.
“I’m blessed to coach such a talented player, one of only a few that I’ve coached to reach that milestone. Super proud of him, and I think he’d be the first to say that his teammates set him up for a lot of those goals,” coach Stewart said.
This goal served as the catalyst for an onslaught of Meridian offense. By halftime, the Mustangs had increased their advantage to 9-4, largely thanks to Moore and fellow senior Hayden Kusic. The later notched a hat trick in the first half alone.
The second half was much of the same. The Mustangs continued to control the game, adding another seven scores to Kettle Run’s singular goal. They ended the game with a nine-point victory, 16-5. With the win, Meridian improves to a perfect 8-0, the best overall record in the region.
“I’m proud of the guys for showing consistency for four quarters. To be able to win by that margin of victory shows that, top to bottom, everybody gave a great effort,” coach Stewart reflected.
Despite the phenomenal season Meridian has had, coach Stewart keeps his team from becoming complacent and remains wary of obstacles in the future.
“We have to take it one game at a time, trying to ignore records, and just battling psychologically, mentally, and physically…we’re just trying to get better every day.”
Next, on Apr. 22, The Mustangs will travel to play against the Sidwell Friends Quakers.
