Gilmer soccer came away with another nonregion victory.
The GHS Bobcats and Fannin County dealt with nasty weather last Monday with plenty of wind and rain on a chilly night. Gilmer took the lead early and never lost it. While the Rebels drew within a goal late, Gilmer held on for a 2-1 victory.
Union County was in Ellijay Friday, and the Bobcats’ attack was held under wraps. The Panthers cashed in the first goal shortly after halftime and added another in the waning minutes for a 2-0 win.
Both of the Bobcats’ goals at Fannin were nothing short of spectacular.
In the 16th minute, Alex Tercero threw the ball in and received it back before launching a 30-yard shot from a tight angle along the right touchline. Fannin’s goalkeeper did not have a chance, and the ball flew over his head and into the top left side netting.
Eight minutes into the second half, Bobcat Angel Garcia raised his hand for a corner kick. He sent the ball into the box and curved it inside the far post for a 2-0 lead.
Fannin’s goal came with six minutes to play. The Rebels intercepted a GHS pass before sliding a 29-yard shot along the turf and inside the near post.
“We played calm and collective without forcing too many errors,” said head coach Taylor Johnstone. “Our defense has been playing very well together and it has showed in these first few games. We are still working to figure some things out overall.
“Coach Aaron Evans has played a huge role in getting our new tactics established, and it is beginning to pay off. I am very proud of how the boys are adapting and accepting this style of play.”
GHS was able to get 10 shots off versus Union, but only four were on target. The Panthers scored with a header off a corner kick six minutes into the second half.
With three minutes to play, Bobcat goalkeeper Talyn Curtis came off his line to thwart a Panther attack. He then passed to an open teammate but an ensuing pass was intercepted. Union fired a 30-yard shot over Curtis’ head as he was rushing to get back into position.
“It was a tough match. We knew it was going to be going into it,” Johnstone said. “Union has a very experienced team and it showed. We played hard, we played our style of ball and didn’t resort to just banging it around and running once we got down. We created several chances to score but just couldn’t get it past the keeper.
“Hats off to Union. They are very well coached and have tremendous talent.”
Gilmer hosts Ringgold Thursday at 7:30 p.m.