The Starr’s Mill girls’ soccer team made the three hour trip worthwhile with a 3-1 victory over Greenbrier Evans in Monday’s 5A Sweet Sixteen game. The Panthers came out on fire early with a goal in 29 seconds. Molly Moroney picked out an inch perfect pass to Lauren Yoss who made no mistake with only the keeper to beat for the 1-0 lead. Moroney was at it again just three minutes later this time finding Jenna Currin in the center of the penalty area. Currin’s finish doubled the lead and Starr’s Mill was cruising. Greenbrier had no answer and it was just 12 minutes later when Starr’s Mill added to their lead. Sarah Yoss found Lauren Yoss behind the Wolfpack backline and Lauren again hit the back of the net for a 3-0 lead.
Riley Clark and Laurel Parker provided the cover in midfield freeing Moroney to serve as creator and the opportunities flowed. Greenbrier looked dangerous on the counter but could manage few clear chances as Dylan Patterson, Rachel Catlett, Claire Williams, and Chayla Park snuffed out any real opportunities. However, with less than a minute before half, Starr’s Mill relaxed when Greenbrier made a long throw and loose ball count as they pulled one back with just 30 seconds left in the half. The teams entered the break at 3-1.
The late goal reinvigorated the Wolfpack and they came out in the second half more determined and quicker to the ball. They had seized the initiative and were in the ascendancy although the Panthers still managed to be a constant threat. Leslie Logan, Currin, Kayla Feigenbaum, Lauren Yoss, and Sarah Yoss all had chances but the final ball was just missing. Still, the Panthers were able to get a hold of the game despite Greenbrier’s superior intensity. The balance came down to a huge save from keeper Paige Betsill with 10 minutes remaining as the Wolfpack finally had their chance to get within one only for Betsill to stone wall the striker with a foot save. Both teams pushed as time wound down but neither could add to the scoreline as the game finished 3-1.
The win raises the team’s record to 15-5-0 on the season as they advance to the 5A State Quarterfinals May 10. The Panthers will travel to the Riverwood/Loganville winner of the match played last night.
