MONROE – Molly and Emma Walline are sisters.
They grew up under the same roof, but have different addresses on the soccer field.
Molly posted two goals and an assist to pace the offense and Emma led a defense that allowed just three shots on goal during a 4-0 win over St. Mary Catholic Central in the Huron League round-robin on Wednesday, May 6.
“They are a great duo,” Milan coach Phil Hayes said of the Walline sisters.
Very different approaches to the game make them a great duo.
“They’ve always been opposites,” Hayes said. “One is more aggressive on the defensive end and the other is more aggressive on offense.”
Abbi Neuhart and Ellie Budd both notched a goal and an assist.
Charlotte Finch also played strong defense in front of goalkeeper Olivia Parker.
Milan, which suffered heavy graduation loses after last season, pushed its record to 5-3-2.
“We replaced a lot of girls,” Hayes said. “We doing a lot of new things and trying out new people.”
He believes his team is rounding into shape with the state tournament set to begin on May 20.
“This definitely boosts their confidence,” Hayes aid. “They’re seeing that the things we do in practice work. … Slow and steady wins the race. I feel like we are ready (for the state tournament).”
WEDNESDAY’S TOP PERFORMERS
BASEBALL
Dalen Cosby and Landon Loveland, Monroe: Each gave up just one run in a 4-1, 3-1 sweep of Bedford. The Trojans gave up seven runs in dropping a single game to the Mules on Monday. Loveland tossed a 5-hit completed game in the opener, then Cosby give up just one hit in the nightcap before Jaydin Hopper come on for the final out. Landin Wells went 2-for-3 to lead the offense in the first game. Asher Simmons had two hits, including a double, and Carson Liedel homered in the second game. Keagan Dixon went 2-for-2 in the first game for Bedford.
This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: Sisters lift Milan soccer past SMCC, Monroe baseball sweeps Bedford
