25 MAR 24 

Johnston IA The defending class 3A state champs, the Johnston Dragons, opened their season at home against the Dallas Center Grimes Mustangs at Dragon Stadium. A slow start leads to an early DCG goal, and Johnston would be behind by one at halftime. Dallas Center would seal the deal by scoring the only goal of the second half to seal a 2-0 win over the defending Class 3A champs, Johnston. Cedar Rapids Kennedy makes a trip to Dragon Stadium this Friday to face off against Johnston following their 1-1 tie with Prairie to open their season. Since 2011, the historical matchup is tied at 3 a piece.  

Here’s what Johnston Head Coach Eric Shaffer said following the 2-0 loss to DCG: 

“We played a really tough opponent in our first match. DCG is back-to-back state champs in 2A for girls soccer. We played well but didn’t capitalize on opportunities. Additionally, we gave up a silly goal that can’t happen when you play a really good opponent. Their other goal was off a set piece and was well done. We are still figuring out our identity and we haven’t quite reached our stride from a fitness standpoint. They were a quality opponent and we will continue to improve as a team.”