Starkville win pair of home shutouts

SDN STAFF REPORT

It has been a very good start to the second half of the season for the Starkville Yellowjackets on the soccer pitch.

After losing a narrow 1-0 decision to Tupelo, which is considered the No. 3 team in the state behind Madison Central and Northwest Rankin, the Jackets back back home on Monday to defeat Caledonia 2-0.

SHS boys coach Rob Fyke said his team has begun 2018 much better than it did 2017.

“It was a change from last year for us when we didn’t come out with much intensity,” Fyke said. “I was pleased with our performance coming out of the holiday break for sure.”

Filippo Della Volta and Reese Dunne had one goal each against the Confederates as the Jackets improved their record to 8-3.

Even though that third loss was against Tupelo, Fyke was proud of how his team went toe-to-toe to the talented Golden Wave.

“It took our boys about 20 minutes to play up to that level, but they responded well and we had three of four good chances to tie it up,” Fyke said “It was just good play on their part and unlucky on our part to not make it happen.”

Fyke said the back line of Dunne, Carter Mock, Nick Hollis and Brandon Gilliland put forth an “honorable effort” against Tupelo and goal keeper Peyton Rogers had 10-plus saves.

Starkville will make the trip to Kosciusko tonight.