Gilmer High continues to face formidable opponents on the soccer field.
The GHS Bobcats were in Union County last Tuesday, and the Panthers scored three first-half goals en route to a 4-1 win.
The Cats were at home three days later to start region play versus West Hall. The Spartans finished second in Class 3A last season and returned plenty of firepower to claim a 4-0 victory.
Union had four shots after only six minutes of play, which appeared to set the tone for the match. The Panthers fired 23 shots on the night compared to six for the Bobcats.
“Union played very well and technical. They were big with a ton of speed,” said head coach Taylor Johnstone. “Going into the game, I asked the boys to focus on us, to play our style and work on fixing the things we have been trying to improve in practice. We were still trying to work out some wrinkles within our formation.
“We are continuing to improve on our number of pass strings and patience. I was very pleased about how the boys played in the second half and how we responded to the adjustments.”
A UCHS cross found a wide-open forward six minutes into the match for a goal. At the midpoint of the half, Union scored a penalty and added another goal to lead 3-0 at the break.
Bobcat Brayner Ortiz cut into the Panthers’ lead early in the second half. He outmaneuvered two defenders and his close-range shot from the left side of the net crept inside the near post despite the tight angle.
GHS got four more shots off over the course of the second half and two were on target. Union kept its offense churning with 16 shots over the final 40 minutes, and one more found the back of the net.
West Hall came out firing in the opening half with 15 shots. The Spartans’ efforts paid off 15 minutes ahead of halftime. A 41-yard free kick and header gave WHHS the lead. Three minutes later, a 21-yard shot found the inside of the far post.
West Hall made it 3-0 with an 8-yard goal with 9:20 before the half when GHS was unable to clear the ball.
Gilmer held WHHS to five shots in the second half, and the Spartans’ final goal game on penalty with 11:30 to play.
GHS had seven shots on the night but just one was on target.
“Our boys did well staying mentally focused after the girls game went into extended time and penalty kicks. They played with tremendous effort and physicality throughout the entire game,” Johnstone said. “We made some tactical changes just before the half, which led to some better scoring chances. At the end of the game I told the boys watch the film, sleep on it and put it behind them.
“We are looking to get our first region win Tuesday at Jr. Bobcat night versus Dawson County. All UFA and CCMS players will get into the game for free, and we should have a great crowd.”
Gilmer has a 3-4 overall record and hosted Dawson at press deadline. The Cats will travel to White County Friday for a 7:30 p.m. match.