Union freshman Maya Woods can’t remember the last time the Titans won a league title. She’s been a spectator of Titans soccer for the past several years — her sister, Macee, is a senior — and she knows the impact of a 4A Greater St. Helens League trophy.
“It would mean a lot for us,” Maya Woods said. “I’ve watched Union for a long time, and finally being a part of it would mean a lot.”
The Titans are well aware these late October matches against stout teams like Skyview are always a risky game in a league-title race. An upset is always lurking.
Union wasn’t going to let that happen Tuesday, escaping with a 2-0 win at Skyview High to remain undefeated in league play entering the final two games.
Union (9-2-2, 6-0) plays Battle Ground and Camas in its final two matches.
“It would really be cool to see all our work pay off in a really neat way,” Union junior Audrey Moehring said.
On Tuesday, the Titans were the clear aggressors. For the opening 40 minutes, those efforts went unrewarded.
Skyview goalkeeper Allie Thompson was brilliant, denying one-on-one opportunities twice and thwarting every ball Union put over the top of the Storm defense. Thompson finished with nine saves on the night.
The Titans were relentless. Eventually, they figured, a breakthrough would come.
“You have to stay composed and make sure you continue to work with your team and not get blindsided by the frustration you’re feeling,” Moehring said.
The goal finally came in the 48th minute, when Abbey Kaip delivered an entry pass into the Titans’ attacking third. Tina Moore left it for Moehring, who found the upper corner on the far post for a 1-0 advantage.
“That was a perfect ball she played, and Tina made a perfect run and decided to leave it for me,” Moehring explained. “It was a super great, selfless play because I just had the perfect angle.”
Added Woods: “It was a great shot, too.”
Woods sealed the victory by following up a parried Nguyen shot and pounding it home for a 2-0 advantage. Woods is a perfect illustration of the unity the Titans have played with this season.
With senior leaders, including captains Macee Woods and Erin Beniga, guiding the ship, and a myriad youngsters helping power it, Union is cruising. They haven’t lost in their past seven games and are 9-1-1 in their past 11.
“It really is our seniors and captains. They have a really good family relationship for us,” Maya Woods said. “Coming in as a freshman, it was so welcoming and everybody was so nice and made sure I felt a part of it.”
Skyview (7-7, 3-3) closes the league season with Camas and Heritage as it tries to lock up the league’s final playoff spot.
