SOLON — There was much to celebrate Wednesday, May 17 for the Lady Spartans as they won their Class 1A Regional match against the Ballard Bombers 3-1.
Tali Radcliffe scored in the 25th minute for a 1-0 lead, and Morgan Link struck in the 37th minute as the ball ping-ponged around before reaching the back of the net. Link scored again in the 61st minute on a penalty kick (PK).
“It was definitely a physical game,” said Coach Amanda Paulson. “I thought in the first half that we controlled the ball well, a little less control in the second half and a little less possession and ball movement than I would like.”
Seniors Alex and Izzy Paisley, Georgia Havlicek, Maria Milliman, Liona Rocca, Morgan Link, Evan Ulch, and Hannah Vance were recognized after the game for Senior Night.
“They’re great,” said Paulson. “I am so proud of them for their leadership and their work ethic on the field and in the classroom. They’ve been a fantastic group and they’ll really be missed next year.”
Elsewhere in 1A Region 2
Benton Community shutout Monticello 10-0 Monday, May 15 but were wiped out by No.2-ranked Nevada in the May 17 quarterfinals. Also, No.10-ranked Center Point-Urbana shut out Cedar Valley Christian 10-0 while unranked Vinton-Shellsburg defeated Tipton 3-1.
Semifinals and beyond
Solon faced Nevada in Nevada Tuesday, May 23 while CPU and Vinton-Shellsburg squared off.
Coach Paulson anticipated a stiff challenge from the 12-3 Cubs, No.1 in the Heart of Iowa Conference.
“We’re gonna have some good competition. We’re gonna have to move the ball better,” she said.
The Region 2 Final is set for Thursday, May 25 at the site of the highest remaining ranked team.
The Class 1A State Tournament will be held Wednesday, May 31, Friday, June 2, and Saturday, June 3 at the Cownie Soccer Complex in Des Moines.
Gabby Knipper (25) looks ahead to pass to a teammate Wednesday, May 17 at home in a Class 1A Region 2 Quarterfinal match against Ballard.