The Gilmer High Bobcats have put themselves in favorable position to return to the postseason.
GHS kicked off its region soccer schedule last week, and the Lumpkin County Indians were up first Tuesday. After falling behind early, the Cats rallied in the second half for a 2-1 victory.
Gilmer made the trek to White County Friday to face the Warriors. After a scoreless first half, the teams combined for three goals over the final 40 minutes, and it was the Bobcats who came out on top, 2-1.
Head coach Taylor Johnstone discussed the Lumpkin victory, noting, “It’s always nice to get a win, but this was special as it was our first region win putting us one step closer to a playoff berth. Region games are never easy, especially in the region we play in.”
The Cats came out sluggish and “lacked mental focus” in the first half, according to Johnstone. Gilmer spent halftime making adjustments to its play and disposition, and their efforts paid off in the second half.
“After some much needed motivation and some formation adjustments, we finally played the way I knew we could,” Johnstone said. “We came out of the locker room with our new found energy and brought it with us to the field. Due to some very aggressive pressure, we created several turnovers, one of which led to a quick score.”
That goal was scored by freshman Brayner Ortiz just minutes into the second half. Shortly after, GHS went ahead for good with what Johnstone described as a “career highlight goal” when senior Domingo Lucas Velasquez launched a shot from 40 yards out into the upper right corner of the net.
“The boys played much better in the second half even after we had several injuries occur. I am very proud of the adjustments they made and of all of the boys for stepping up to the challenge of coming back in winning the game,” Johnstone said.
At White, junior Sebastian Lucas scored his first career goal with some crafty play. He received a 35-yard aerial pass from freshman Keby Puac near the top of the 18-yard box. Lucas headed the ball, and when the goalkeeper came off his line, Lucas headed it a second time and over the keeper’s head.
The Cats’ second goal came off a cross from sophomore Jorge Flores to senior Camden Lyles, who settled the ball in the box and put it into the back of the net.
WCHS got a goal back with an 18-yard free kick, but the Warriors were unable to even the score.
“The boys played with tremendous effort and self discipline as the game got very physical,” Johnstone said. “We are looking to secure our place in the playoffs with one more win.”
GHS is 5-4 overall and 2-1 versus region opponents. Gilmer hosted Lumpkin County at press deadline and travels to Pickens Friday for a 7 p.m. match.