After coming back from a rough shutout loss to Hollidaysburg, the Golden Eagles were hopeful that a league match against Penns Valley would give them an opportunity for a win.

But despite a marked improvement from the team’s 10-1 loss to Penns Valley last season, the Golden Eagles dropped a close game 3-1.

Tyrone came out strong, scoring first in the first five minutes on a goal from junior Conner Bardell.

Tyrone’s lead continued for about 25 minutes until the Penns Valley Rams came back with a goal.

With halftime closing in, the time on the clock counted down with both teams maintaining a decent amount of ball possession, and few balls moving beyond either team’s midfield.

But with one play around Tyrone’s midfield and defense, Penns Valley managed to put one in the back of the net, leaving Penns Valley with a 2-1 halftime lead.

Despite being down, the Golden Eagle’s persistent mentality told them they were still in the game.

Tyrone had a few scoring opportunities to tie in the second half, but with 15 minutes remaining Tyrone goalkeeper Eric Sims was called for handling the ball outside the goal box, resulting in a yellow card for Sims and a free kick for the Rams.

Due to the yellow card, Sims had to exit the game for five minutes, and Tyrone’s backup keeper, who had to come into the game cold, had to defend against a free kick just outside the 18-yard box.

The Rams hit a ball high just out of junior varsity keeper Devon Nardelli’s reach,  resulting in a goal that made the game 3-1 Penns Valley.

Despite the 3-1 loss, the game was still a marked improvement from last year.

“It’s little things where improvement can be seen. Hard work doesn’t go unnoticed, and perseverance pays off,” said Tyrone Head Coach Alex Bartlett, “We are still in this, but we have to do the little things.”