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HERRIMAN — The defending 3A state champions Ogden Tigers are headed back to the championship match after a commanding 3-0 shutout victory over the No. 2 seed Manti Templars in the semifinals at Zions Bank Stadium.
With a fierce offensive attack and unwavering defense, the No. 6 seed Tigers proved why they remain a formidable force, setting up a highly anticipated rematch with Morgan for the title.
Ogden came into the semifinal matchup on a hot streak, having won 11 of their last 12 games, including a 7-0 blowout against Canyon View in the quarterfinals. The Tigers, known for their high-powered offense, showed no signs of slowing down, led by standout performances from Isabella Gray and Elle Weston.
Despite Ogden's offensive aggression, Manti's defense, anchored by goalkeeper Alyssa Whitney, fought valiantly to keep the game within reach. Whitney made several crucial saves throughout the match, preventing what could have been a larger margin of victory for the Tigers.
Alongside her, defender Aleida Jimenez helped bolster Manti's defensive efforts, but it wasn't enough to hold back Ogden's relentless attack.
The scoring began in the first half when Weston, who had been a constant threat all game, weaved her way past two Templar defenders and rocketed a shot into the top corner of the net, putting Ogden up 1-0. The Tigers continued to press, but Manti's defense and Whitney's heroics kept the deficit at one heading into halftime.
In the second half, Ogden's star forward, Isabella Gray, made her presence felt even more. Gray netted two goals, including a critical second score that extended the Tigers' lead to 2-0.
Even after sustaining an injury late in the second half, Gray returned to the field, showing her toughness and determination.
While Manti searched for a response, Ogden's defense, led by goalkeeper Grace Malan, shut down every Templar attack. Malan's clutch saves helped preserve the shutout, as Ogden's backline proved just as dominant as their offense.
The Templars, who came into the game with an impressive 18-1 record, were unable to find their rhythm against Ogden's suffocating defense.
Manti's Alyssa Whitney continued to make critical saves to keep her team within striking distance, but the offensive firepower of Ogden was simply too much to overcome.
With the win, Ogden (14-7) moves on to defend their state title against Morgan in a rematch of last year's championship game.
The Tigers' impressive form, combined with their experience and desire to repeat as champions, sets the stage for an exciting showdown on Saturday, October 26, back at Zions Bank Stadium.
Ogden will look to continue their dominant run as they take on Morgan, a team they know well, in what promises to be an electrifying rematch for the 3A state title.
