The Shadow
COVINGTON, Va. (VR) – Alleghany turned in a defensive-heavy two-game stretch last week earning a shutout win over Bath County before going toe-to-toe with district powerhouse Riverheads.
Against Bath County, the Cougars were organized from the start and capitalized on a key first-half opportunity. With time winding down before the break, Gracie Stull stepped into a long strike from outside the penalty area and found the net to give Alleghany a 1-0 edge. From that point on, the match shifted to defense. The Cougars packed the back line and midfield, cutting off passing lanes and forcing Bath into low-percentage chances. Jordyn Bradshaw was a constant disruptor, finishing with 21 steals and repeatedly stopping attacks before they developed. When Bath did get through, goalkeeper Kaydence Bragg answered, recording 13 saves and controlling the box to secure the shutout victory.
In the game against Riverheads, Alleghany faced a faster pace and sustained pressure from a team ranked second in the district. The Cougars stayed composed and limited scoring chances early, but Riverheads broke through once in each half. Despite the 2-0 final, Alleghany’s defense held firm for long stretches, forcing Riverheads to work for every opportunity. Taylor Stayton led the effort with 19 steals, stepping in to break up plays and slow the attack. Bragg remained under constant pressure and delivered again with 14 saves, keeping the game within reach throughout.
Across both matches, Alleghany’s defensive unit and goalkeeper play stood out, combining for 27 saves and consistently disrupting possession, while Stull’s first-half strike against Bath County proved to be the difference in the Cougars’ lone win of the stretch.
