The Gilmer High Lady Cats had a busy week on the soccer field.
GHS began last week on Tuesday with its only region match at Lumpkin County, and the talented Indian squad notched a 5-0 win over the Cats. Gilmer was back on the road the next day at Calhoun, and the Yellow Jackets had plenty of offense in an 8-1 victory.
The Cats hosted LaFayette Friday and endured more wind and rain. The match needed overtime, and Gilmer’s 2-1 win snapped a four-game losing streak.
Lady Cat Sophia Lykins had a scoring chance late in the game at Lumpkin, but her shot hit the cross bar.
Yenifer Lopez scored her 19th goal of the season at Calhoun, but the Yellow Jackets’ goals came steadily throughout.
“Lumpkin was a talented, well-coached team who was organized and good on the ball,” said head coach Adam Palmer. “The girls worked hard improving from last season’s result (of an 11-1 loss).
“Fatigue from a hard-fought game at Lumpkin the day before coupled with rain and poor field conditions attributed to the less than desired result at Calhoun.”
GHS was without multiple injured starters versus LaFayette, according to Palmer. The Ramblers opened up the scoring with a penalty kick 13 minutes into the first half.
With 14 minutes remaining, the Cats tied the score. Carly Becerra sent a cross into the box from the right wing, and Lykins put the ball in the back of the net with her left foot.
The teams played to a stalemate in the second half, and Lykins netted the winning goal 10 minutes into overtime.
“We’re glad to get back on track,” said Palmer. “It rained the entire game, which definitely affected play. We had to adjust our setup as several starters were injured. The team stepped up and got the win, and I couldn’t be more proud of their commitment to finish the game.”
GHS is 7-4 overall and travels to West Hall Friday for a 6 p.m. match.