Tigers defeat top ranked Hoover 1-0
On Friday the Tigers hosted an undefeated Hoover team who is ranked #1 in the Alabama coaches pole. The Tiger come into the game after their 2nd defeat of the season in the double overtime thriller at Huntsville. Hoover came into the game as 13-0. The Bucks were the last 7A state champions OF 2019.
The first half ended 0-0 both team were on the attack either team was able to really generate any convincing chances to take the lead. Hoover did give the Tigers some trouble with their aggressive pressing in the attacking third but the home team as able to recovery in time to sniff out the opportunity. The story line of the first half and game may have been the number of fouls. Together the both teams had a total of 38 fouls (a number that is usually in the teens).
Both teams talked at half time, made some adjustments and kicked off the second half. The Tigers created several opportunities but couldn't get it across the Buck goal line. Some excellent goal keeper from Hoover prevented what would have been a tab in for Tahir. A few minutes later the Tigers shoot a rising shot that hit the bottom of the cross bar that goal into goal (according to some) and spins back out. The shot is ruled no goal to keep the game scoreless. The Buck generate a few half chances from counter attacks generated from their defensive corners but, Austin, Aubrey, & Joey are able to sniff them out.
Finally with less than three minutes left in the game the Grissom get a corner kick on the far side. The cross of half cleared to an open Trey Pinke towards the top of the box. Trey shot is deflected away to the feet of black and white jerseys. After a quick scramble the ball fall right on top of the 6 yard box to Kevin Dong who smashes it into the back of the net. The pride of Tigers take off in cheer of relief, happiness, excitement. They see them game out and things finish 1-0 in favor of the Tigers.