The Oakville High School girls soccer team delivered a commanding 4-1 win over Mehlville on April 15, boosting their record to 5-3-1 as they approach the heart of the season. With this victory, the Tigers are starting to hit their stride—both in performance and health—after a string of early-season injuries.

Sophomore Ashley Forbes made her much-anticipated season debut after a preseason injury, wasting no time getting on the scoresheet with an assist. Leading the offensive charge was Kylee Pikul, who tallied two goals and five total points in the match. Alivia Schnur and Reagan Kemp also found the back of the net, while Meredith Hoffman added two assists.

Head coach Sarah Guenther was optimistic about the win, noting that her team is beginning to turn the corner after a slew of injuries early on.

“We’ve been plagued with a lot of injuries,” Guenther said. “We have done well and are learning a lot about this team by having to deal with the injuries.”

A consistent presence throughout that challenging stretch has been junior Avery Nixon, who leads the team with six goals and 15 points on the season.

“Avery’s really been a huge part of our success,” Guenther said. “We decided to bring her up into the midfield this season and she’s played well for us.”

With the season halfway through, Guenther emphasized that the team is using every game to prepare for an extremely competitive Class 4 District lineup. The Tigers will likely face powerhouse programs including Jackson—whom they haven’t beaten in three years—alongside reigning Class 3 state champion Cor Jesu and Class 4 champion Nerinx Hall.

“This is where we find everything out,” Guenther said. “We’ve gone through so much, and dealing with the injuries has truly helped prepare us for what lies ahead.”

Oakville will get a regular season crack at Jackson on April 23, after The Call’s press time, a matchup Guenther says could significantly influence district seeding.

“If we can beat Jackson, that will put us in a good spot, as far as seeding goes,” Guenther said. “Right now, we are focused on baby steps.”

Following the win against Mehlville, the Tigers faced Poplar Bluff on April 17, winning 6-0. They will next travel to Jackson on April 23, then return home to host Notre Dame on April 24 — both games occuring after The Call’s press time. 

With momentum building and key players returning, Oakville is aiming to peak at just the right time.

“I want us to be who we are,” Guenther said. “This team will have a whole new mindset going into the postseason.”