St. Aloysius claims district title with 1-0 win over Manchester Academy

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN)

St. Aloysius secured a district championship Monday with a 1-0 victory over Manchester Academy in a defensive battle.

The win marked the first district title for head coach Gio Baldizon, who was doused with an ice bucket during the postgame celebration.

“This was one thing off my list, and my girls made it happen tonight,” Baldizon said. “They fought so hard, including my young players. Overall, I’m happy, and now it’s time to get a playoff win. I wouldn’t have been able to do this without assistant coach Jessica Tate.”

Lynlee McMillin scored the game’s lone goal nine minutes into the match, providing all the offense the Lady Flashes needed.

“I feel great because they’ve been telling me all season to follow up,” McMillin said. “This feels so great because it took a lot of hard work for us to get here.”

After taking the early lead, St. Aloysius relied on its defense to hold off Manchester Academy. The opposition made several advances, but goalkeeper Sarah Smith recorded a shutout, including a diving save late in the game to preserve the lead.

With the win, the Lady Flashes advance to the playoffs and will look to continue their postseason run.