The Nipmuc Warriors girls’ soccer team continued its unstoppable run, sitting at an incredible 12-0-1 after last weekend’s 2-0 win over South Hadley. The Warriors, last year’s D3 champions, have pieced together a nine-game win streak since their lone tie against Weston and sit No. 2 in the power rankings behind Medfield. In the South Hadley game, Lyla Hill and Cate Tengler provided the scoring punch, each getting on the scoresheet as Nipmuc’s defense and goalkeeper dominated the match from the opening whistle.
Nipmuc’s season has been defined by balance: a stingy back line that stymies opposing chances and an offense that finishes when presented with opportunities. The Weston tie, against a No. 15-ranked opponent, was the lone blemish, and the Warriors have responded by tightening rotation, keeping pressure on opponents, and converting on chances. The team’s posture is one of controlled confidence; they have the depth to close out games and the tactical discipline to shut down dangerous attacks.
Up next is a road trip to Grafton tomorrow at 4 p.m., where Nipmuc will look to extend its streak to 10 in a row. Given the way the Warriors have combined defensive solidity with timely scoring, they enter that match as clear favorites but will treat Grafton as another step in a long title defense march.
