The Hornets improve to 10-4 overall out of Region 2 and class 2A, and Warren falls to 9-3 overall. But it’s the type of team the Dragons want to play at this point in the season.

“I thought both teams were evenly-matched. Only one goal was scored and, unfortunately, it was Hickory,” said Warren head coach Denny Flatt. “A couple mistakes on one play resulted in a goal. We had a couple of quality chances, but could not convert. When you play quality opponents, your scoring opportunities are limited. We have to score and not waste those opportunities. Overall, we were satisfied with our level of play. Some changes have been made at the midfield in an effort to strengthen our attack. These changes require some work, but will benefit us in the future. Our defensive line has been stellar all season and Saturday’s match was no different. The backline comprised of Ricky Madril, Ethan Best, Corban Reinard, and freshman Chase Sitler frustrated Hickory the entire match. Keeper Will Nebinski made some great saves despite the wet conditions. Parks Ordiway, who is leading the district in assists and is second in goals, played extremely well. Midfielder Jack Darling played with tons of determination on both sides of the ball. Freshman Finn Ordiway was recently moved from the back line to the midfield to provide support and create options. Mark Lynds, playing on the outside, made some nice passes that almost turned into goals. Roman Sheets has had great back-to-back games. Kohle Lyon gave us some quality minutes and can always be counted upon to give us 100 percent.”

Warren’s three regular-season losses have been by a combined four goals, but all have been shutouts.

“We have landed on the wrong end of a couple really tight matches, but these are the type of matches that help us get better, help us get playoff-ready,” said Warren assistant coach Chris Darling.

Warren defender Ethan Best heads up a ball in a match against Hickory on Saturday at War Memorial Field. Photo courtesy of Erin Napolitan

Tyler Mele broke through for Hickory’s lone goal. Warren had several chances in the rain in the second half, but couldn’t convert.

“The Hickory program is a quality program and we knew after playing them to a 1-1 tie last season that this was the type of team and match we were excited to play,” said Darling. “We have a big match coming up to finish the regular season against Franklin. It will decide the region and a quality match like this will help us be ready. Our defense has been really strong; we just have to make sure we convert on our offensive opportunities. That will be a focus as we prepare for the end of season and playoffs.”

Franklin — also a 1-0 winner over the Dragons this season — is 10-1 and in first place in Region 4. Warren and North East split this season and both are 9-2 in the region. North East and Warren have one more match each at Franklin. Warren, hosting Oil City on Monday and Corry Wednesday this week, is the top 3A seed in the region. Franklin and North East compete in 2A in the playoffs.

“Sometimes you learn more from a loss than a win and I think we matured after the Hickory match,” said Flatt. “Moving forward, we will be working on our speed of play to create space and spread our opponent’s defense.”