The Gilmer Lady Cats won their second region soccer match of the season with a rivalry shutout.
GHS hosted Pickens last Friday, and like much of the season, the teams dealt with wind and rain. The visiting Dragonettes were on their heels for much of the first half, and GHS took a goal lead into the break.
The persistent rain that was present for the first 40 minutes was not there for the second. The break in the clouds only fueled the Cats as they tacked on two more goals for a 3-0 victory.
“We are very proud of the team,” said head coach Adam Palmer. “They have worked hard all season to improve and maintain composure in high pressure matches. We love to see their smiles when their hard work pays off. Their team play and trust in each other showed and got us the region result we needed.”
Lady Cat Sophia Lykins fired Gilmer’s first shot 13 minutes into the game, and it marked just the beginning of the Cats’ offensive onslaught. Ten minutes later, Yesica Tercero-Bautista’s shot off a GHS corner kick was just wide. Moments later, another corner kick found Lady Cat Amalia Perez Escobar, but her shot flew over the crossbar.
Yenifer Lopez also got in on the action, but her shot was saved. GHS broke through with 3:13 before the half. Lopez made another threatening run down the left wing, and her pass found a charging Calli Wise at the far post. Wise’s sliding shot sent the ball into the net for a 1-0 lead.
GHS wasted little time in the second half. Lopez was a thorn in Pickens’ side whether it was scoring or dribbling the ball into threatening scoring positions. She moved Gilmer ahead 2-0 four minutes into the second half. Her shot from the left side of the box found the bottom right corner of the net.
Shortly after, Pickens had its best shot of the night, but goalkeeper Amayah Jones was there for the save. Three more Lopez shots were saved before GHS center back Salma Gonzalez thwarted a hard Pickens’ shot with a sliding deflection.
GHS added its third goal 15 minutes into the half. The Cats rushed downfield on a counter attack led by Lopez. Pickens’ goalkeeper opted to come off the line, and Lopez easily sidestepped her and tapped the ball into the goal.
Over the final 25 minutes, Lady Cats Escobar Perez, Gimena Domingo-Tercero, Selina Tercero Bautista and Xiare Ramirez-Garcia all contributed to keep the Dragonettes off the scoreboard.
GHS has a 9-5 overall record and is 2-2 in the region. Gilmer played Chestatee at press deadline and hosts White County Friday for a 5:30 p.m. game.