Henderson County proved a tough test for the Lady Panthers, but goals from Meredith Campbell and Kenlee Newcom bookended a solid defensive effort by Daviess County in their 2-0 win Tuesday in their girls’ soccer semi-state match.
The Lady Colonels (14-7-4) defended their home field admirably, keeping Lady Panther defense on their toes for most of the night. While the two goals proved vital for Daviess County (21-3), one of the most important plays of the night came at the other end of the field.
With 20 minutes to play and the DC lead sitting at 1-0, senior defender Elizabeth Collier managed to push a Henderson County shot just wide of the left post. It was the second big chance in quick succession for the Lady Colonels and their last real threat of the game.
Fellow senior defender Hannah Hurt said the Lady Panthers had to fight hard but they worked together to preserve the shutout.
“Henderson County had a couple of big chances, but we found a way to clear the ball without them scoring,” Hurt said. “I feel like our defense played really well tonight and communicated well all night.”
Daviess County’s offense struck quick, as Meredith Campbell put one in just over a minute into the game. The goal was constructed by Bree Owen’s smooth footwork, as she picked up the ball near midfield and danced past several Lady Colonels en route to an early assist.
A second goal was not as easy to come by, tough, and the rest of the first half was mostly defensive in nature. A few half-chances later, and it was on to the second half with the Lady Panthers clinging to their one-goal advantage.
After several more shots both ways, Kenlee Newcom finally added to DC’s lead with seven minutes to play. Minutes earlier, the senior shifted into more of an attacking role after having played as a midfielder for most of the night.
Newcom gained possession for a counterattack near midfield, and a few key touches later she launched a shot from the right side of the field past the outstretched arms of the Lady Colonels’ keeper.
Lady Panthers’ head coach David Sandifer was happy to get past a worthy opponent in Henderson County.
“Henderson came out and pushed us tonight, especially in the second half,” he said. “Some of the girls might say they didn’t play their best game tonight, but at this point in the season, it doesn’t have to be pretty as long as you survive and advance. Credit to the Lady Colonels for their great effort tonight.”
Daviess County will travel to play Greenwood the quarterfinals of the state tournament later this week. The game is currently scheduled for Saturday, though a starting time was not known immediately after the game. The Lady Gators knocked off Marshall County 2-1 in their semi-state game Tuesday night.
Stay up to date on all your local sports coverage by following @OwensboroSports on Twitter and by liking us on Facebook.
__________
2019 soccer coverage is presented by Worth Insurance Group.
