The Gilmer High Lady Cats nabbed a pair of soccer victories last week.
GHS took the field Monday at home against Lakeview-Fort Oglethorpe and scored two goals in each half to come away with a 4-1 victory.
The Cats ended the week Friday on the road versus region foe Ridgeland. Gilmer continued to create chances for goals and evened the score each time the Panthers pulled ahead in the first half. GHS netted two more goals in the second half for a 4-2 win.
“In Monday’s game with LFO, we had possession over 50 percent of the game with 55 percent of our passes successful,” said coach April Nicholson. “Those numbers may not sound impressive, but in this game alone, we attempted over 210 passes, the majority of which occurred in the midfield.
“We have a really solid group this year, and I’m really excited about the potential they have.”
Lady Cat goals were scored by Abriana McCollum, Naomi Coombs, Catarina Tercero and Olivia Lykins.
Versus Ridgeland, the Panthers struck first, and GHS answered with a goal by Coombs. Ridgeland tallied another goal, and Coombs was there again. Her second goal came after receiving a corner kick from Anna Byrd to even the score at 2-2 at the half.
“After a defensive adjustment at halftime, we shut down the Panthers’ offense and netted two more goals.
“Our defense, including Byrd and Cadence Smith, did a great job shutting down their strikers. Anything that leaked through landed in the hands of (goalkeeper) Raegan Dempsey. Our attacking six did an amazing job of working the ball up the field.”
Both of the Cats’ second half goals were scored by Coombs. It marked the second time this season she has scored four goals in a game.
The win improved Gilmer’s record to 3-2-1, and the Cats continue region play this week.
“We have our second region game Friday against Northwest Whitfield,” said Nicholson. “I know this year we have the talent to beat them, but it’s going to be a tough game.”
Friday’s home kickoff against Northwest is set for 5:30 p.m.