By Allie Arnold
Staff Writer
Tonight the Coppell Cowgirls soccer team defeated the Grapevine Mustangs, 1-0 in the first round of playoffs.
Considering the Lady Mustangs are this year’s District 6-5A champions, the Cowgirls are proud to have overcome a huge obstacle early on and continue on the road to state.
Both offenses struggled to get the ball past each other’s defenses during the first half. Both teams are known for their tough forwards, but neither team was able to get close enough to take a decent shot.
In the second half, the Cowgirls began to pick up the pace and keep the ball in play near their goal the majority of the time. Junior forward Sarah King had several opportunities to score after breaking free of Grapevine’s tough defense, but could not seem to get a good shot.After a corner kick for the Cowgirls about 20 minutes into the second half, sophomore Shay Johnson headed the first and only goal of the game into the net. Setting the tone to finish the game, the Cowgirl’s defense had no problems defending their goal, especially after junior goalie Rachel Johnson blocked an incredible penalty kick at about 15 minutes left in the second half.
The game ended 1-0 with the Cowgirls advancing to the second round of payoffs.
“I am so proud of our team,” King said. “It was a great win but we are staying focused for the next round.”