Both teams started slow with the first goal being made by the Yellow Jackets' AARON BRONSON at the 31:50 mark. Bluffton quickly responded with a goal from senior ROBERT JOHNSON (Columbus/Marion-Franklin), to end the scoring at 1-1 for the half.

 

The Yellow Jackets came out of the half strong as they added a goal just one minute into action. The Yellow Jackets then added two more goals back-to-back in minute 62 to open a commanding 4-1 margin. The Beavers did not get discouraged as ANDREW JOHNSON (Vienna, WV/Parkersburg) added a goal for the Beavers less than two minutes later. The Beavers then added Robert Johnson's second score of the contest and fourth of the season with just under four minutes to play thanks to a beautiful feed from NOLAN PHELPS (Monroe/Lemon-Monroe), but Defiance fought off the Bluffton offensive to come away with a 4-3 victory over the home team.

 

Bluffton was outshot 16-9, and 7-6 on frame. Leading the Beavers' offense was senior speed merchant Robert Johnson and JACOB GRAHAM (Gomer/Elida) with two shots on goal apiece.

 

Bluffton forced six corner kicks, one more than Defiance. The Jackets were whistled for 14 fouls, while the Beavers only received six, however, the home team was flagged for two yellow cards. BRIAN GOOD (Elida) had one save through 62 minutes, while MAAX HESSON(Monroe/Lemon-Monroe) picked up two saves during the final 28 minutes of action.