By Kyle Roberts

Ruston High’s girls soccer team fought Haughton to a draw on Monday night with a final score of 1-1 after scoring the tying goal within the last few minutes of the match.

“Haughton is a team we enjoy playing,” Ruston head coach Jacquelyn Bean said. “They are competitive and similar in style of play. “We played them less than a week ago in their tournament, and it’s not always preferable to rematch a team with this quick of a turnaround.”

The match saw a lot of fouls in the first half on both sides as the teams went into the half 0-0. Ruston had an opportunity in the second half with a penalty kick after a handball, but unfortunately, missed high. Haughton responded with a fast break goal shortly after to a take a 1-0 lead.

“My girls kept going and never quit,” Bean said. “We felt that if we could get a couple more chances, we could find a goal and get the draw. Both teams had been pretty equal all night. You get this feeling that there’s another goal left in the match.”

Bean’s gut feeling proved true. With less than three minutes remaining, Ruston responded after a corner kick across the box to senior Raegan Smith, who passed perfectly to freshman Layla Smith. Smith then connected with sophomore Morgan Foster who put a perfect ball into the net from 11 yards out.

“It was electrifying,” Bean said. “It’s nice to see your team keep pushing and fighting for a result. This is a draw that feels like a win.”

Both Ruston soccer teams will return to action Tuesday, Nov. 29, against North DeSoto.