There was always belief the Lady Pioneers would have better days ahead on the pitch this season, but going the first nine games without a win made waiting a struggle. Battling through tough times has paid off though as Warren County rolled off three straight wins last week, capped by slamming Sparta 4-0 Thursday night.
Allison Escamilla had her first two-score night for the Lady Pioneers, while Addison Steakley and Chloe Wanamaker also found the net in another impressive win for Warren County. It followed a 6-2 triumph over Watertown and 4-1 victory over Coffee County earlier last week, the former being the team's first win this season.
Warren County (3-6-3) has found success at the perfect time and seems to be growing in confidence every time they suit up now.
"The girls are so happy and able to enjoy themselves," said coach Kimberly Smith after another romp last week. "It's so nice to see that. We are going to keep pushing and encouraging the girls to improve every game so we can keep our momentum going into district games (this) week."
Having more scoring options developing has been a huge boost for the Lady Pioneers on the back half of the schedule. Wanamaker was the team's lone goal scorer through its first six games, but with attention drawn to the speedy sophomore, other capable scorers have started to emerge.
Steakley was the first to find the net in Sparta, getting a great pass from Jayla Garibaldi - a clear difference maker since returning from a knee injury last week - before beating the keeper with a shot.
Escamilla, a respected leader of the Lady Pioneers quickly made it 3-0 as she was able to capitalize on good looks from Wanamaker and Noelle Bratcher to score on the Warriorettes.
By the time Warren County's offensive attack had Sparta defenders spread out to stop multiple attackers, Wanamaker was able to find room and smash a shot to continue her productive scoring season.
Defensively, Callie Roberts was able to notch her first shutout of the season as the team's keeper did her job in the few opportunities White County had to mount a counter.
Warren County will get a chance to continue its winning streak in border battles Monday when DeKalb County visits town. The start time against the Tigers is set for 6 p.m.
