BLANCHESTER – Each team scored early then defense took over as Blanchester and Clermont Northeastern played to a 1-1 tie Tuesday in SBAAC National Division soccer action at Barbour Memorial Field.

The tie puts BHS at 4-5-2 overall and 3-3-2 in the division. The Lady Rockets are 6-2-3 overall and 4-1-2 in the conference.

Emily Hinkle’s ninth goal of the year put BHS 1-0. The goal came on a long-range shot from 30 yards out, BHS coach Kurt Ballinger said.

The Lady Rockets tied the match less than two minutes later on a goal by Kayla Nichols.

Ballinger said though the scoring ended early the match did not lack drama. Hinkle and her midfield partner Taylor McQuitty “were aggressive throughout the game and were able to win back the ball numerous times on the counter-attack for the ‘Cats.”

Defender Olivia Gundler helped limit the number of quality shots taken by Clermont Northeastern, Ballinger said.

Regan Ostermeier had nine saves in the net for BHS.