The 3A #1 Millers faced off against the 3A Avon Orioles Tuesday night at Hallmark Orthodontics Soccer Complex. The Millers came out strong and didn’t relent for much of the game with a season high 22 shots on goal. The Oriole keeper had an outstanding game, saving 18 of the 22 shots. The first of the Millers four goals came in 12th minute from Jake Johns on an assist from Palmer Ault. This was Johns first varsity goal for the Millers. The second Miller goal came in the second half from Noah Bernot, marking his first goal as a Miller. The goal came after Kyle Goad dribbled to the top of the 18 and made a pass to Ault. Ault slotted the ball across the penalty area to Bernot, who hit a nice shot near post. After several more shot attempts, the Millers scored their third and fourth goals for the night in the 74th and 75th minutes. The first came on the hockey assist from Brayden Doll to Goad, who slid a lateral pass past the defense to Ault who slid the ball past the keeper. A minute later 2 out of the same three Millers came together for another combination play, this time with Johns retaining possession after getting knocked down. He slotted the ball to Goad, who passed the ball to Ault. After Ault’s first strike didn’t make it to the goal, he followed the shot and tapped the rebound to the far post.
The player of the game and championship belt went to Goad. After the game Goad said, “Tonight was a great team performance. Coach Dollaske and the rest of the coaching staff had a great plan for us to put into place. You know, we have a special group of guys. COVID messed us up but it didn’t bother us; we rallied behind each other. Players really stepped up and filled into positions they don’t always play, but everyone did a great job and didn’t let the energy drop #getvaccinated #justsomeboys”.
In addition to the great play on the field, the Millers once again had a major advantage thanks to the fan base. Tuesday’s night game marked Hawaiian night for the Miller student section, who came equipped with leis, flowered shirts, and squirt guns. Senior student section leader, Will Perkins said, “We really want to come out this year and support this special group of guys. We think of ourselves as part of their success. We are the 12th man on the field with them.” The energy was evident throughout the game, and contributed to the Millers dominance over the Orioles.
The Millers go on a 3-game away swing, facing off against Brebeuf on Thursday, North Central on Saturday, and Fishers on Tuesday.