NOLENSVILLE, TN — In a pair of hard-fought battles on Nolensville pitch Thursday evening, the Ravenwood Raptors Boys Soccer program delivered a statement of poise and perseverance, walking away with victories in both Junior Varsity and Varsity matchups. With daylight fading, the Raptors made the most of their time on the pitch, executing in key moments and turning back a determined Nolensville side.

JV: Mooney's Crossbar Stunner the Difference

The Junior Varsity match set the tone for the night, as both teams opened with measured intensity and disciplined shape. The first half unfolded in a tactical deadlock, with chances few and far between. Neither side could find a breakthrough, heading into halftime locked at 0-0.

But early in the second half, Ravenwood struck. Off a set-piece — awarded just outside the box in a tight angle — #11 Connor Mooney delivered a moment of magic. His right-footed strike soared over the wall, kissed the underside of the crossbar, and ricocheted into the net to give the Raptors a 1-0 lead.

Nolensville amped up the pressure in the closing stretch, pushing numbers forward in search of an equalizer, but the Raptor back line held steady. With organized defending and clutch clearances, Ravenwood sealed the clean sheet and the win.

Varsity: Quickfire Connections Propel Raptors

The Varsity match brought more of the same: disciplined play, flashes of creativity, and decisive finishing from the visitors.

In the 22nd minute, Ravenwood opened the scoring when Simon threaded a slick ball through the Nolensville back line to Bas, who calmly tucked it away for a 1-0 advantage.

Nolensville, however, responded swiftly. Just five minutes later, they capitalized on a breakdown to level the match at 1-1 — a momentum-shifting moment that tested the Raptors' resolve.

That test was passed with maturity. With halftime approaching, Eli delivered a pinpoint assist to Spencer, who broke free and slotted home the go-ahead goal, restoring the lead at 2-1.