OWENSBORO, KY — Owensboro built a three-goal lead and then had to withstand a second-half push from Daviess County Thursday night, holding on for a 3-2 district victory at Deer Park Elementary Field.

The Red Devils struck twice in the first half, finding the back of the net in the 26th and 35th minutes to take a 2-0 lead into halftime.

Owensboro added another goal early in the second half to extend the advantage to 3-0.

Daviess County answered in the 54th minute when senior Graham Robinson got behind the defense and finished into the side of the net, with senior Avery Dilger providing the assist.

The Panthers cut the deficit to one in the 72nd minute. Dilger collected a rebound off a throw-in and served the ball back into the box, where Robinson headed it home for his second goal of the night.

Daviess County continued to pressure Owensboro in the closing minutes, but the Red Devils held on to secure the district victory.

Peter Mbayo led Owensboro with two goals and an assist. Kennedy Payne added a goal, while Patrick Alexander and Japheti Bavento each recorded an assist.

The win moves Owensboro to 10-1 on the season, while Daviess County falls to 7-3-2.

Both teams return to action Saturday. Daviess County hosts Greenwood at 10 a.m. at Deer Park Elementary Field, while Owensboro hosts South Warren at 7:30 p.m. at the Owensboro High School Athletic Complex Soccer/Lacrosse Field.

SNAPSHOT

FINAL
Owensboro 3, Daviess County 2

RECORD
Owensboro: 10-1
Daviess County: 7-3-2

LEADERS
Owensboro — Peter Mbayo: 2 goals, 1 assist
Owensboro — Kennedy Payne: 1 goal
Owensboro — Patrick Alexander: 1 assist
Owensboro — Japheti Bavento: 1 assist
Daviess County — Graham Robinson: 2 goals
Daviess County — Avery Dilger: 2 assists

NEXT UP
Daviess County vs. Greenwood — Sept. 12, 10 a.m.
Deer Park Elementary Field

Owensboro vs. South Warren — Sept. 12, 7:30 p.m.
Owensboro High School Athletic Complex Soccer/Lacrosse Field