Strong Second Half Downs Van Buren

(BLUFFTON) - Two defensive giveaways led to two first half Van Buren goals but Bluffton rebounded with a strong second half to down the Black Knights 5-2 in boys soccer action.  Bluffton remained unbeaten on the season at 5-0-1.  

Jonathan Schriner sped his way to the game's first goal 15 minutes in but Van Buren got on the board just moments later.  The Pirates erred in the defensive third and a Van Buren intercept led to a strong shot from Chance Conley that beat keeper Nic Essinger in the 19th minute.  Just before the half, another miscue in the defensive third led to a breakaway and a foul in the penalty box.  VB's Jonah Frederick converted the penalty kick for a 2-1 Black Knight lead. 

The Pirate seniors did not waver and quickly righted the ship.  Schriner scored five minutes into the half.  Simon Derstine put in a rebound goal at the 58th minute and added a nice shhot at the 71' mark.  Schriner finished off the scoring five minutes later as Bluffton completely controlled the second half.  Assisting on goals were Josh Mehaffie and Thad Mittendorf.  

The Pirates owned a 17-7 advantage in shots on goal.  Essinger grabbed 5 saves in the win.