The Gilmer Bobcats sent Pickens home with a sound defeat.
GHS welcomed its southern archrival to Huff-Mosley Memorial Stadium last Friday, and the Bobcats left little doubt as to who was the better team. Gilmer dominated possession from start to finish, and the Dragons were fortunate the score was not much worse.
The Bobcats led by two goals for much of the game. While they continued to get plenty of shots in the second half, GHS was unable to add more goals and won, 2-0.
“We were in control the entire match,” said Taylor Johnstone. “We created many more chances, but unfortunately, just couldn’t find the net. We have been working on some finishing this week at practice. We had many accurate crosses as well that weren’t finished off the volley. This was a focus at practice as well.”
The Bobcats were quicker on the ball, and they used passing and space much better than the Dragons. GHS goalkeeper Talyn Curtis was rarely pressed into duty and spent much of the game as a spectator.
Sebastian Lucas took Gilmer’s first shot 30 seconds into the match. Four corner kicks followed over the next eight minutes, and the Bobcats scored in the ninth minute. Brayner Ortiz was given too much space to operate, and he wrapped his left foot around the ball and curled it inside the far post.
Lucas and Ortiz continued to get open shots, and Gilmer added its second goal 18 minutes before the half. This time, Ortiz provided the assist, and Liam Engel settled the ball into the back of the net.
“Brayner’s goal was a left-footed banger from 20 yards out,” said Johnstone. “It was great to see him score in that fashion, he was due for one. Liam has found the net the past two matches.”
Gilmer continued to create opportunities in the second half. Unfortunately for the Cats, most of their shots were directly at Pickens’ goalkeeper. Ortiz, Lucas, Oxlaj, Angel Garcia, Keby Puac, Alex Tercero, Calvin Lian and Eder Martinez kept the shots coming, but GHS was unable to add to its lead.
“Overall, we’re very happy with the outcome of the game, and love getting a region win, especially when it comes against Pickens,” said Johnstone.
GHS has a 5-7 overall record and is 1-3 in the region. Gilmer played Chestatee at press deadline and hosts White County Friday for a 7:30 p.m. game. Friday is UFA night, and all players who wear their jersey get in free with a paid adult.