Fresno Christian girls soccer defeat the Sierra Pacific Golden Bears, 1-1, for the CIF, Central Section, DIV IV Championship, Feb. 26, claiming back-to-back titles.
With Sierra Pacific scoring early in the first half, the Eagles fight for a chance to score. The crowd erupts as captain and key player Meghan Connolly, 26’ scores late in the second half tying the game, allowing the Eagles to move on to overtime. Late in overtime, Connolly is taken off the field with an ankle injury, adding tension to an already intense match.
After battling through two 10 min overtime periods no goals occur. The game now heads into best of five penalty kicks. Faced with a high pressure situation, captain Hailey Higton, ‘27, feels confident in herself and her teammates.
“We prepared well for the penalty kicks leading up to the game,” said Higton. “I knew we all would do well if we were confident and placed the ball in the corner.”
Goalkeeper Trinity Bannister, ‘28, mentally prepares for the challenge that comes with being a goalie during penalty kicks. Trusting her preparation, Bannister blocks a shot made by the Golden Bears.
“Making the save was incredible; it was exactly what we needed in that moment and it helped push us ahead into states” Bannister said. “Being able to come through for my team like that is something really special.”
Freshman Kendall Higton scores the final kick, securing the Eagles second year in a row as section champions.
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