The Woodford County High School girls’ soccer team advanced to the 8th Region semifinals with a 4-0 victory over Walton-Verona in the regional quarterfinals Oct. 20 at Community Stadium.
Addison Cummons opened the scoring for the Lady Jackets with a booming shot that sailed past the Walton-Verona goalkeeper to give Woodford County a 1-0 lead.
Woodford County coach Brandon Cummons said the early goal helped settle his team into the match.
“It was an absolute beauty of a shot,” Cummons said. “That goalie is tough. She has 14 shutouts on the year, and she doesn’t get beat very much like that. It was the most perfectly placed shot. Great start to the game, and I really think it just relaxed everybody.”
Just one minute later, Bailey Green connected on a header off a corner kick from Abby Lowe, sending the ball into the back of the net to extend the lead to 2-0.
Woodford County continued its offensive success in the second half as Sacoyia Garcia scored early to push the lead to 3-0.
Lowe capped the scoring with a corner kick that curled around the Walton-Verona goalkeeper and into the net, giving the Lady Jackets their fourth goal of the match.
Cummons credited his team’s defensive effort, which limited Walton-Verona’s scoring opportunities throughout the match.
“I wish we could have put in a few more, but two in the first and two in the second,” Cummons said. “I don’t think they really had a good shot on goal, maybe two shots on goal. That’s been our forte the last few games. Not just shutouts, but limiting their shots.”
The victory also marked an emotional moment for the Lady Jackets as they played their final home match of the season.
“It was a good result,” Cummons said. “It’s our last home game, win or lose, so pretty emotional, pretty special. Super-happy for how they played and competed, and glad we got the win.”
With the victory, Woodford County advances to face North Oldham in the 8th Region semifinals Oct. 21 at Grant County High School.