The Cashmere Bulldogs boys soccer team stepped out of SCAC play on Saturday and made the short trip to Manson for a non-conference matchup against the Trojans. The Bulldogs continued their strong run of form, winning their eighth straight match with a hard-fought 1-0 victory. With the win, Cashmere improves to 10-1-1 on the season and currently sits at #4 in the WIAA 1A State RPI rankings.
Cashmere wasted no time getting on the board. Just four minutes into the match, sophomore Tommy Batanoiu found the back of the net to give the Bulldogs an early 1-0 advantage. The early goal would prove to be the difference in a match where opportunities were plentiful but finishing was at a premium.
The Bulldogs controlled much of the first half, generating several quality scoring chances but were unable to extend their lead. In the second half, Cashmere continued to dictate possession and kept pressure on the Manson defense, again creating multiple opportunities that just missed connecting.
Defensively, the Bulldogs were outstanding from start to finish. Senior goalkeeper Ranique Allen anchored the effort with a clean sheet, recording the shutout. In front of him, the defensive backline of Alex Batanoiu, Cooper Hauck, Ian McFadden, Grey Jacobson, and Claudio Parra delivered a strong, cohesive performance to preserve the lead. The shutout marks Cashmere’s third of the season.
Cashmere now turns its attention back to conference play. The Bulldogs will host the Kiona-Benton Bears on Tuesday in a varsity-only match scheduled for 6:00 p.m., where they will look to keep their winning streak alive.

