Monday started the opening night of district play for girls soccer, and the Kearney Bulldogs came away with a 1-0 victory.

*Emma Weightman rushes to defend in the opening night of district play*

The Smithville Warriors came to Kearney with payback on their minds after losing both regular season games to the Bulldogs. From the opening whistle, the Warriors fought hard against the Bulldogs, but Kearney’s defense refused to let anything through.

In goal, Lily Ellis was able to keep a clean sheet and Chelbi Brown, Moira Olberding, Emma Weightman, and Gracie Bomar were all solid players on the back line defense.

In the mid-field Kenzi Hoffman, Anya Dunn, and Emily Yakle kept control of the ball, while Bulldog wing players Faith Mick and Mia Adkins were able to keep the Warriors defense on their toes.

Forward Caysi Brown is always a threat with her speed and determination.

Adkins was able to gain control of a loose ball in the middle 12 minutes and 51 seconds into the game, and sent a pass through to Yakle. Yakle then placed a perfect ball to Brown who put the ball into the net scoring the game’s only goal.

A great combination of passing and teamwork was the key to success for the Bulldogs.

The Bulldogs take on the Platte County Pirates on Wednesday, May 19th at 6pm for the district championship.

KPGZ Sports - Kim Adkins contributed to this story