Prep Soccer: Barking & Biting

Harrisburg head coach Mike Stewart was waiting for the Harrisburg defense to step up and accept a challenge.

The Bulldogs did so, in a big way, Tuesday at the Michael Herrin Soccer Complex.

Harrisburg (9-2) shut out the Wildcats in the second half, getting a goal from Emil Loe in a 3-2 victory over Marion.

"The Bulldog defense contained the Marion attack very well," Stewart said. "They were able to shut down the middle and stop the switching of the field. This is the strongest I have seen our defense play. I knew they could play this way, I was just waiting for them to show me and they came through at the right time."

The Harrisburg offense also did their part, peppering the Marion defense with 13 shots on goal.

Anfernee Houston provided two goals off assists from Cody Morris to give the Bulldogs a 2-0 lead before the Wildcats knotted the score at 2 before halftime.

Houston finished with five shots on goal, while Carver Gregg had four. Morris and Loe each had two, with Loe coming through with the game winner in the second half.

"Our guys played the best soccer they have played all season," Stewart said. "They set out to do a job tonight and they did it. It was outstanding. Our offense was able to move the ball very well. Their touches were golden and they played a short game that was hard to defend. The Wildcats did not know how to combat our attack and I don't think this is what they were expecting."