(Posted Monday, February 9) Gatesville scored goals in each half here Friday night, sending the Hornets to a 2-1 win over visiting China Spring in District 17-4A play. The victory gives GHS a season mark of 5-5-1 (all but one of the losses have come against Class 5A-6A schools) but more importantly leaves Coach Amanda Johnson's squad unbeaten in 17-4A play through three games. The Hornets are open Tuesday but return to league play Friday here against La Vega (5:30 PM). "I can't say enough about this group of girls," said Johnson. "They are putting together an amazing season right now. It has been about teamwork and unity." GHS accounted for the game's only goal during the first half of Friday's game. Jessica Ortiz found the corner of the net with 7:03 left before halftime, with her true kick coming after GHS had misfired on seven other scoring opportunities. The Hornets continued their assault near the net after intermission, working for 14 shots on goal in the final 40 minutes. Ortiz kicked true again, this time on a penalty kick that came with less than nine minutes to play to give her team a 2-0 lead. China Spring scored a goal late but it would be the only net visit against the GHS defense and goalie Rebecca Dunahoo, who saved 11 shots during the night. Johnson also applauded the defensive play of Holly Sohns, Maria Lozada, Rhysa Smith and Amy Stephens. Besides Ortiz, other offensive standouts included Viremy Saldivar, Laura Vega, Yazmin Robledo, Celine Castelo and Emily Reza. "Our kids continue to play with the mindset of 'doing this together' every time we take the field," noted Johnson. "We still have a long ways to go, but I like the way our team has started in its first three district games." The updated 17-4A standings/results are attached.
Right photo - Hornets' soccer in recent game