Mineral Area Men’s Soccer Team Finishes Region Play Unbeaten

The Mineral Area men’s soccer team concluded the Region 16 segment of its schedule unbeaten after securing a 3-1 victory over State Fair on August 27, 2025, in Park Hills. This impressive performance not only showcased the team’s skill but also earned them a first-round bye for the upcoming postseason tournament.

Cooper Falvey opened the scoring for Mineral Area in the 34th minute, capitalizing on a well-placed pass from teammate Kobe Bewicke. Goalkeeper Pedro Jarvie played a crucial role in maintaining the Cardinals’ early lead, stopping the only shot he faced in the first half. The Cardinals, currently holding a record of 5-3-5 overall and 3-0-2 in the region, could achieve the No. 1 seed with home-field advantage if St. Louis loses to State Fair in the following week.

The match took a quick turn as State Fair equalized shortly after halftime. Mohammad Sami Gooder scored with a volley from Nathan McCollin, leveling the match at 1-1 just two minutes into the second half. Undeterred, the Cardinals regained the lead in the 69th minute when an attempted clearance by a State Fair defender resulted in an own goal from a corner kick.

Shortly thereafter, Thomas Reif solidified the victory by placing a stunning 25-yard drive into the top corner, marking his third goal of the season. The Cardinals took a total of 18 shots during the match, with Reif, Connor Bisgrove, and Godslove Mensah each contributing three shots. Keeper Charlie Emery made three crucial saves, particularly during a tense moment when State Fair threatened to equalize again.

Cardinals Draw Against Metropolitan

In a demanding back-to-back away match, the Mineral Area men also faced Metropolitan, managing a 1-1 draw on August 26, 2025. This match featured Godslove Mensah, who took five shots and scored his team-leading fifth goal unassisted in the 17th minute. However, Julius Boech countered for Metropolitan, equalizing with an assist from Daiggan Gaar in the 52nd minute.

The Cardinals displayed offensive strength, generating 21 shots, including three from Kobe Bewicke, while earning six corner attempts. Goalkeeper Travis Eddleman made nine saves, particularly vital during a first-half barrage from Metropolitan. Pedro Jarvie completed the match with three saves as well.

The regular season will conclude for the Cardinals against the Missouri Baptist reserves, providing an opportunity to build momentum heading into the postseason.

Women’s Soccer Update

In women’s soccer, the Mineral Area women edged out State Fair 2-1 in their recent match. Goals from Millie Pinkley and Olivia Waller before halftime helped secure the victory. The Cardinals dominated offensively, launching 30 shots at the State Fair goal, while goalkeeper Tegan Bennett made six saves to preserve the win.

The match initially saw State Fair take the lead just three minutes in, with Ella Smith scoring unassisted. Pinkley responded in the 17th minute with an assist from Ophelia Coe, and Waller netted her team-high ninth goal from Maria Ferreira just before the break. This victory marked a welcome end to a five-match winless streak for Mineral Area, now standing at 6-4-3 overall.

In contrast, the women’s team suffered a setback against Metropolitan, falling 3-0 in a match characterized by physical play. Alyssa Guadagnano opened the scoring with a free kick, followed by an assist to Gillian Hernandez. Gianna Artese added another goal, supported by Kendall Marchio. Despite being outshot 16-9, the Cardinals created several opportunities, with Elsie Barker and Ellie Brand leading in attempts.

As the Cardinals prepare for the postseason, both teams are poised to build on their recent performances and make a significant impact in their respective tournaments.