The Ooltewah Owls boys’ soccer fought their way back into the win column Thursday night after a 1-0 win at home against the Collegedale Academy eagles. At no point were either team in a comfortable position to secure the win. Each had their fair share of chances in front of goal; however, possession often favored the Owls. Both teams were relentless on the defensive side of the ball. Eventually Ooltewah would find their golden opportunity and take it.
“It felt good,” said Ooltewah Owls’ goal scorer Arnold Diaz. “We felt like we were losing at first but now we just focus on our big game on Tuesday. We play Harden Valley. It is an away game for us. That could be a state game.”
The first half showed no goals for either side. It was one wall against another, and the offenses were fighting for every chance they could get. As the game progressed, the Owls gained their confidence and controlled most of the possession. They made some changes within the offense that sparked some multiple chances. Unfortunately, halftime would come around and there would still be no points on the scoreboard.
“My left winger, Cade, was supposed to be there,” said Diaz. “Instead I found the ball and of course I had to finish and do my job. We had possession most of the game. it was just about finding key players to finish the ball. I hope we can win the rest of our games and make it to regionals.”
The second half would show to be more fruitful for the Owls. After finding their rhythm and creating space in the offensive third, all of their hard work would pay off. Walker Tym, who had played well on both sides of the ball all night, took a beautiful shot from far outside the box. The shot would miss barely as it rang of the crossbar. Out of nowhere Arnold Diaz stepped in to finish the job and make it 1-0. The Owls would maintain their lead and grab another win for the 2025 season.
Game Summary
Collegedale Academy 0 0 --0
Ooltewah 0 1 --1
Goals:
Ooltewah- Arnold Diaz.