By Cort Reynolds

The Bluffton High School boys soccer team defeated Allen East 2-1 in a key Northwest Conference battle Tuesday night, September 19, playing on home turf at Steinmetz Field.

The Pirates improved to 3-5-2 overall and 2-0 in NWC play with the win.

Allen East dropped to 4-3-2 overall and 1-1 in the NWC after the defeat.

After a scoreless first half, Bluffton took the lead early in half two. Theo Andreas tallied off a Chase Kelly assist in the 41st minute to put the hosts ahead 1-0.

Mustang Jay Cox tied it up 1-1 with a goal in the 59th minute.

But in the 60th minute, Pirate Jackson Brauen tallied the game-winning goal.

Bluffton directed nine of its 23 shots on goal. AE put six of its 13 shots on goal.

Bluffton keeper Truett Diller made five saves, while the Allen East goalie was credited with six stops.