GREENVILLE – The Nation Ford Lady Falcons soccer team couldn’t stop a second half rally by the JL Mann Patriots to fall in the third round of the 5A playoffs.
The Patriots won 2-1 with two second half goals as the teams played in a constant second half downpour in Greenville Saturday night.
Nation Ford head girls’ soccer coach Khrys Dundr said his team left it all on the field.
“It was a fantastic game,” he said. “I am proud of how they played. Mann is a fantastic side. A couple silly mistakes and we could have been out of here with a 1-0 win. I have no doubt they gave everything they could.”
JL Mann for their first chance at a goal about three minutes into play off a direct kick, but Falcons’ keeper Sara McCaskill was ready.
The Patriots controlled possession for the most part and was able to win on the attack and retain control. Nation Ford was able to get some touches, but unable to maintain any consistency.
JL Mann was able to lineup another direct kick and a corner kick, but Nation Ford defensively was able to crowd the box.
Nation Ford did get some opportunities on offense about 20 minutes into the match. A couple throw-ins on their side of the field came away empty handed for the Falcons.
With about 10 minutes left in the first half, the rain started with a steady downpour. Just as the rain struck, so did the Falcons.
Nation Ford finally found a way off their second straight corner kick as Karly Griffin scored on a header in the 35th minute.
The 1-0 lead took the match into the half, but the Patriots came out on the attack in the second half and found an equalizer just five minutes into play to tie the match.
JL Mann controlled possession for most of the first 10 minutes of the second half including multiple shots on goal. That constant offensive pressure by the Patriots resulted in another goal in the 59th minute which gave them a 2-1 lead.
Nation Ford had some chances in the second half with about 15 minutes left, but wasn’t able to really get a good look. The Falcons did get a free kick in the last two minutes of regulation, but missed wide left.
Nation Ford finished the season with a 13-8 overall record.
May 4 Roundup
The Catawba Ridge girls’ soccer team fell to the Eastside Eagles on the road 3-1 in the third round of the 4A state playoffs. The Copperheads season ended with a 19-5 overall record.
Mac Banks: mac@fortmillprepsports.com, @fortprep
