Rivals by definition according to Webster's means: one of two or more striving to reach or obtain something that only one can possess b: one striving for competitive advantage. In sports there are great rivalries that need no explanation or introduction. Just say their names. One such rivalry is the soccer matchup between the Bowling Green Purples and the Greenwood Gators boy's soccer teams. Let's take a closer look at this rivalry.

Since 2000, the boys programs have faced each other 19 times. This includes post season play. As of October 15 th 2007, Bowling Green has won 10 times; Greenwood has won 9 times with both teams sharing a tie in 2004. Over those 20 matches Bowling Green has scored 28 goals against Greenwood and Greenwood has scored 33 goals against the Purples.

Since 2000, Bowling Green has captured 3 District Championships, 4 Region Championships and one State Championship. During the same period the Gators have won 4 District Championships and 2 Region Championships.

Both programs have impressive resumes, but with all great rivalries the records and scores from previous games and years go out the window. The stage is set for yet another fantastic match up between these two programs. The wild card is the Warren Central Dragons who defeated Greenwood last season 2-1 in the first round of District play.

One thing is for sure, when the Purples and Gators meet again Thursday night for the region 4 finals there will be 80 minutes of non stop action and plenty of physical play. There will be large crowds, students painted in there respective school colors, yelling and cheering. The October night will be cool, and the stakes will be high.

When the final whistle blows for this 2007 season, one team will advance and one will go home. But, as we have seen history repeats itself, and the great tradition and rivalry of the Greenwood Gators and Bowling Green Purples will be back again. That is for sure!