Throughbreds claim second straight district title

Photo by G. Michael Graham. The Newport Central Catholic Thoroughbreds won their second straight district title with a 1-0 win over Highlands at Tower Park on Thursday.

By G. MICHAEL GRAHAM

Fort Thomas Matters Sports Reporter

There are many reasons to throw out records once the postseason comes around.

One is the return of key players from injuries.

The Newport Central Catholic Thoroughbreds soccer team played competitive soccer all year, but had a hard time finding victories because of injuries, defensive mistakes and an inability to score goals. That changed Thursday in NewCath’s 1-0 District 36 victory over the Highlands Bluebirds at Tower Park. Both teams advance to the 9th Region Tournament.

This marked the second consecutive district title for the Thoroughbreds. They beat Bishop Brossart for the 19th District title last year before beating Covington Catholic, 1-0 to win the 10th Region crown and losing 1-0 to Montgomery County in the first round of the state tournament.

NewCath also beat Highlands for the first time since 2004. The Bluebirds went 11-0-2 in the last 13 meeting against the Thoroughbreds, including a 2-0 win on Sept. 22 at Tower Park.

Tuesday Sports Briefs

By G. MICHAEL GRAHAM
Fort Thomas Matters Sports Reporter
The Highlands Bluebirds soccer team was to play at Campbell County on Tuesday. However, excessive rains over the weekend forced the cancellation of the game.
The Bluebirds (5-3-1 overall) travel to Simon Kenton on Thursday. Game time is 8 p.m.
NewCath ties Montgomery County in Sweet 16 rematch:
The Newport Central Catholic Thoroughbred soccer team traveled to Mount Sterling and came away with a scoreless tie against the Montgomery County Indians on Tuesday.
The Indians bested the Thoroughbreds, 1-0 in the Sub-Sectional round of the state tournament last year. The Indians then lost to eventual state runner-up Ryle.
NewCath (1-4-1 overall) saw goalkeeper Nathan Grosser record 13 saves. The Thoroughbreds had nine shots, but none hit the back of the net.
The Thoroughbreds travel to Cooper on Thursday for a 7 p.m. contest.