The Gilmer High Lady Cats were at home for both of their region soccer matches last week.
The Dawson County Tigers were in town Wednesday, and they held on to a 1-0 edge for the win. GHS welcomed North Hall Friday and maintained the lead for 20 minutes in the second half. However, two late Trojan goals allowed them to overtake the Cats for a 2-1 victory.
The teams dealt with some blustery winds Wednesday. One goal was needed for Dawson’s win, and GHS coach April Nicholson noted the Cats’ play was lackadaisical at times. Gilmer had some scoring opportunities over the match’s final 40 minutes but were unable to net a tying goal.
“The girls came out very slowly. The weather with the high winds was a major factor. In the second half, they really picked it up, having 12 shots on goal, but their keeper kept them with a clean slate,” Nicholson said.
The Cats played a much more cohesive match versus North Hall. Chances were sparse for both teams in the first half as much of the action took place in midfield. One of Gilmer’s best chances came 12 minutes before the half. Yenifer Lopez sent the ball into the box from the left wing but it sailed high.
GHS broke the scoreless tie 12 minutes into the second half. A shot by Lopez fell to Angelica Castanada at the far post, and she put the ball in the net for a 1-0 lead.
North Hall continued to press forward. Its efforts were rewarded with 7:30 left in the game when a 25-yard screamer shot right under the crossbar to even the score. Two minutes later, the Trojans took a 2-1 lead on a corner kick. An unmarked Trojan gathered the ball at the back post for a goal from point-blank range.
“I think the girls played a much better game tonight. They held possession for much of the game and took several quality shots on goal,” Nicholson said.
“We held on to that lead for much of the second half. After North Hall equalized, we tried to rally back, but ultimately, North Hall put a banger over our keeper’s head. The girls played remarkably well. I am so proud of how well they did and to say that we were heartbroken about this loss is an understatement.”
GHS is 3-10-1 and traveled to Lumpkin at press deadline. Gilmer will host Lakeview-Fort Oglethorpe Thursday at 5 p.m.