BAUXITE, Ark. – In a hard-fought first-round match of the 4A State Soccer Tournament on Thursday, May 9, 2024, at Bauxite, the Warren Lumberjacks fell to the Wynne Yellowjackets by the final of 1-0, brining an end to the 2024 season for the orange and black.
Top photo: Warren’s Aaron Romero battles down the left wing in Warren’s loss to Wynne Thursday.
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From the initial whistle, both teams appeared prepped for a patience 80-minute battle on the field. Wynne threatened early in the 3rd minute, hitting the post from a well-placed ball over the top. However, it was Warren that asserted dominance in the opening eight minutes, displaying their attacking intent and retaining almost all of the possession.
The first notable chance for Warren came in the 17th minute when Alann Juarez tested the Wynne keeper from 30 yards, but the shot was straight at the goalie. Despite Wynne’s attempts to catch Warren on the counter with deep balls over the top, Warren maintained control of the game, and defensively looked sound.
In a twist of events, Wynne capitalized on a penalty opportunity in the 34th minute after a quick move into the box led to a collision with Warren’s keeper. Wynne’s penalty taker calmly slotted the ball to the left of Jessie Cortes, Warren’s keeper, putting Wynne in the lead 1-0 as halftime approached. Despite the penalty incident, Cortes put in an impressive performance along with Warren’s back four, including Miguel Mendoza, one of Warren’s two central defenders.
The second half saw Warren coming out with an offensive onslaught, eager to equalize. Jacarlos Marquiz had a notable chance in the 55th minute with a powerful shot near post, but Wynne’s keeper made a crucial save. Despite several close attempts from Marquiz and the team’s persistent efforts, Warren couldn’t find the breakthrough they needed.
With the final whistle, the Lumberjacks fell short against Wynne with a score of 1-0. Despite the loss, Warren concludes their season with an overall record of 8-5-1 and the honor of being crowned Conference Champions of the 4A East.