McKinley’s Two Goals Lift Prospectors Past Irrigon 3-2 in Home Finale

JOHN_DAY, Ore. - Hannah McKinley scored twice on speedy breakaways to seal Grant Union High School’s 3-2 soccer victory over Irrigon on Thursday, Oct. 22, in the Prospectors’ final home match. The teams played under the lights in pouring rain.

Adie Judd scored Grant Union’s first goal on a breakaway run as the Prospectors found success attacking through balls from midfield. Shreya Vyas created opportunities on the wing, helping the offense find its rhythm. McKinley, who often plays defense, delivered the two finishes that secured the victory. Parents and fans braved the weather to cheer the Prospectors through their home finale.

The win followed a productive attacking performance in a 4-4 Senior Night tie against Echo on Oct. 17. Abril Ceja and Keira Stiner each scored twice, with Stiner converting a well-paced penalty kick. Grant Union combined effectively through its passing game to generate more shooting opportunities in one of the team’s best performances of the season.

One goal against Echo connected all three captains: Ceja passed to Eliza Bailey, who found Stiner for the finish. Aleilee Allen made nine saves in goal, while Naomi Blood and Chloe Hardiman contributed at both ends of midfield, defending and creating opportunities for the attack.

Between those home performances, Grant Union lost 6-0 at Riverside on Oct. 20. The defensive line faced a difficult attack, with Cosette Klusmier, Bristol Bailey, Arte McKnab and Aubri Judd continuing to work throughout the road defeat. The Prospectors responded two days later with their three-goal effort against Irrigon.

The season ultimately ended with an 8-0 loss to league-leading Umatilla, with Allen making numerous saves. Despite that difficult finish, Grant Union completed its fourth season with fewer losses than in any previous season of the program.