Hornell – 8; Wellsville – 0
by Hornell High School Athletics, photo of 2025 Hornell Raiders team by Colin Vance
Hornell and Wellsville. Longtime rivals every sport season. The last time the Red Raiders and the Lions met on the soccer field was in the 2024 Section V Class B Semifinal Round at Haverling High School. After a hard-fought game by both teams last fall, the Red Raiders came out with the 1-0 victory to advance to the championship.
With a number of returning starters, a talented group of seniors and several strong underclassmen, the Red Raiders put on a strong showing Tuesday night in their season opener with an 8-0 win in Wellsville.
Coach Jim Tobin was pleased with tonight’s win. Amidst a constant downpour, the Red Raiders put forth a strong offensive effort, scoring 8 goals in the shutout win.
Senior Gabriel Rasephei got things started for the Raiders, scoring the first Hornell goal just six minutes into the game. Seniors Jayden Rasephei and Marco Picco combined for two more Red Raider goals to put Hornell up 3-0 at the half.
Hornell’s coach Tobin commented, “We played well in the second half tonight. I was pleased with our start. Many players contributed to the win.”
The Red Raiders scored 5 more goals in the second half. Seniors Marco Picco (2), Gabriel Rasephei (7), and Wyatt Evingham (10) scored two goals apiece. Seniors Demayne Dixon (12) and Jayden Rasephei (19) each added a goal in the win. Jayden Rasephei also had 2 assists.
Wellsville’s goalkeeper, Wheeler Dahleren played a tough game and had 7 saves for the Lions.
The Red Raiders have a full schedule next week, traveling to Dansville Monday night. Hornell will host Bishop Kearney in their home opener on Tuesday. They will round out the week hosting Livonia on Thursday and Canisteo-Greenwood Saturday evening.
