Monroe Boys' soccer captured their second district title in four years as the Trojans squad overcame their county rivals Bedford 1-0 in the district final at Bunkelman Field on Wednesday night. It was the first time a  a championship game had been played at the High School since the move from Custer School in 2022.

The game was a tense affair with few clear cut chances for either side. Monroe shaded the first half in terms of possession and time in their opponents half but were unable to fashion a genuine goal scoring opportunity. Monroe switched up their offense with Brian Palmer, Vishwas Joshi, Logan Brockway Edwin Sanchez, AJ Wells and Yesael Vargas all taking turns up front but none were able to find the key to unlocking a stout Bedford defense. At the other end Monroe's keeper Nathan Sanchez had only two long range efforts to deal with.HT 0-0

The two teams remained locked at 0-0 throughout the second half until a long throw in by Cooper Robinson bounced to Teegan Simmons who kneed the ball over the keeper for an unconventional go ahead goal.

Monroe switched their formation to add an additional midfielder in Luis Diaz to retain control of the game, but Bedford pushed forward relentlessly and had the lions share of the play in the remaining minutes.. Monroe's defense of Bryson Lane, Colin Gray, Teegan Simmons, and Cooper Robinson stood tall and kept the visitors at bay. 

The twins Israel and Yesael Vargas had outstanding games, as did captains Jovanny Gallegos and Bryson Lane. Goalkeeper Nathan Sanchez performed heroically in goal having just barely recovered from a high ankle sprain picked up in training. Monroe held on for the narrow win and will now play Plymouth Canton in the regional semi final at Dearborn Fordson High School on Tuesday night October 22nd.

A proud night for Trojan soccer and the occasion was made more special by the attendance of the school marching band, the Trojans cheerleaders and the biggest HS soccer crowd in living memory at Monroe. 

Monroe now 13-7-2 on the season.