Greeneville, TENN. – In a commanding display of skill and execution, the Greeneville soccer team clinched the school’s 13th consecutive district tournament championship with a resounding 9-0 victory over Grainger High School. The win not only adds another accolade to Greeneville’s storied soccer history but also propels both teams into next week’s regional tournament.
The match began with both teams showcasing their offensive ability, but it was Greeneville who seized the early opportunities. Simon Holt of Greeneville nearly opened the scoring, only to be denied by a remarkable save from Grainger’s keeper, Johnny Venegas. Moments later, Grainger had their chance to take the lead off a corner kick by Juan Vences, but Reynaldo Vences’ header narrowly missed the mark. However, that would be the last significant threat from Grainger in the first half as Greeneville gradually asserted control over the game.
In the 17th minute, a corner kick from Austin Beets found Brandon Rogers, whose precise header gave Greeneville the lead. The floodgates opened for the Greene Devils from there, with Samuel Gourley netting two of his four goals within the next ten minutes. Gourley’s first came in the 22nd minute, followed by a spectacular long-range strike in the 28th minute. Just two minutes later, David Fisher joined the scoring frenzy with a powerful shot from 15 yards out. All State striker, Austin Beets, who impacted the game by creating opportunities for others, added one of his own with a tap in to make the score 5-0 at halftime.
The second half saw no respite for Grainger as Greeneville continued to dominate. Gourley added two more goals in the opening ten minutes, bringing his total to four for the game. With a commanding 7-0 lead, the second and third units were able to gain valuable playing time, but little changed in the quality of play. Among the highlights was Emerson Hensley’s stunning side volley from 18 yards out, further widening the scoreline to 8-0. Justin Banegas sealed the victory with an emphatic 18-yard blast, triggering the “mercy-rule” to end the game early.
Greeneville’s offensive power was on full display, tallying an impressive 40 shots with 26 on target, while Grainger managed just 5 shots throughout the match. Johnny Venegas of Grainger put up a valiant effort in goal, making 17 saves, while Greeneville’s Tanner Myers and Landon Creech combined for 3 saves.
With the win, Greeneville secured their 13th consecutive district tournament championship and now sets their sights on the regional tournament. They will host Elizabethton on Tuesday at 6 PM, while Grainger will travel to David Crockett, as both teams aim to continue their postseason journey.
