John Marshall tops Brooke in the OVAC quarterfinals
John Marshall secured a decisive 5-0 victory over Brooke in the OVAC Class 5A boys' soccer quarterfinals, marking a significant milestone as the Monarchs hosted their first tournament match at Monarch Stadium. Senior Ethan Corvino led the charge with three goals, raising his total to 14 for the season. Coach Josh Strope expressed pride in the win, noting its importance for a program not traditionally known for soccer success. He emphasized the need to build the program's reputation and the significance of reaching the OVAC tournament. Brooke's coach, Joe Pepe, reflected on the challenges of a rebuilding year after losing eight players to graduation, including top scorers.
Despite the loss, Pepe appreciated the effort from his team, which features many younger players. John Marshall will next face Steubenville in the semifinals, a matchup that Strope views as a critical step for his team's development. The Monarchs' solid performance, particularly in the second half, showcased their potential as they aim to establish a stronger soccer presence in the area.