The Chillicothe Hornets boys soccer team battled back from an early three-goal deficit Monday night against conference rival Savannah, eventually forcing overtime before the Savages prevailed in a penalty-kick shootout.
Savannah struck early, building a 3-0 lead within the first 10 minutes. Chillicothe responded with renewed energy as senior Coy Jones scored from outside the box on an assist from Josh Ojeaga to put the Hornets on the board.
A few minutes later, Ojeaga found the back of the net himself after receiving a pass from senior Brennen Fitzpatrick. Ojeaga finished one-on-one against the goalkeeper to pull Chillicothe within 3-2 with 22 minutes remaining in the first half. Savannah added another goal before halftime to take a 4-2 lead.
The Hornets controlled the momentum in the second half, combining increased offensive pressure with steady defensive play. Ojeaga scored his second goal of the night just six minutes into the half, finishing a play assisted by Mason Walter to make it 4-3.
Midway through the second half, Chillicothe was awarded a penalty kick, and Walter converted to even the score at 4-4.
Neither team could find the deciding goal through the remainder of regulation or two 10-minute overtime periods. After 100 minutes of play, the teams remained tied, sending the match to a penalty-kick shootout.
Savannah ultimately secured the victory, converting its eighth penalty kick to win the shootout 5-4.
In the junior varsity contest, Chillicothe earned a 1-0 victory. Hyun Lee scored the winning goal on an assist from Ayden Davis.
The varsity loss moves Chillicothe to 6-5 overall and 2-2 in Midland Empire Conference play. The Hornets return home Thursday, October 15, to face Benton.