Crossings downs KHS in 3A soccer playoffs
KINGFISHER’S Ariana Rivera works against Crossings Christian during Tuesday’s Class 3A playoff game. Rivera scored three goals, all in the first half, in the 6-4 loss. Rivera scored 11 goals this season, tied for the team lead. [KT&FP Staff Photo]
A strong second-half surge by Crossings Christian School put an end to Kingfisher’s soccer season.
The host Lady Knights scored three straight goals in the second half to break open a tie game en route to a 6-4 victory in the first round of the Class 3A playoffs.
“They played tough and gave some excitement to everyone involved,” said coach Aniessa Edsall. “It’s never fun to go out like that, but we’re going to learn from it.”
The excitement was largely in the first half as KHS and CCS exchanged goals, battling to a 3-3 halftime tie.
All three of the Lady Jackets’ goals came off the foot of Ariana Rivera.
The junior gave Kingfi sher a lead at 33:30 of the first half as her shot dribbled just past the line.
It took Crossings just 20 seconds to answer and tie it up.
Rivera struck again at 29:03 with her second goal.
This time the Lady Knights needed just about 90 seconds to tie it up, then took their first lead with another goal at 7:21.
Rivera got her hat trick and tied it up with a goal at 5:57.
But that was Kingfisher’s last goal until 3:48 remained in the contest.
By that time, the Lady Knights had taken control.
They broke the tie 15 minutes into the second half, then built a cushion with goals at 10:10 and 4:49.
Kylee Rojas found the back of net with her free kick at 3:48, but that’s all the offense Kingfisher could muster in the second half.
Kingfisher’s season ends with an 8-6 record.
The year started with a 4-3 defeat to Crossings at home.
Crossings, which won its district while going undefeated in those games, moved into the second round with a 10-2 overall record.
“These girls have a lot to be proud of,” Edsall said. “They have overcome challenges all season long.”
KHS never had the services of seniors Maleonia Vogt, Peyton Walker and Addy Matthews. All three would have played signifi cant roles, but missed the season with various injuries.
Seniors Zoey Padilla, Rojas, Jaquelin Rivera and Hannah Click helped pick up the slack.
“The seniors had great leadership all season and that impact will be felt for years to come, especially for the freshmen,” Edsall said.
“From the freshmen to the seniors, this group played for each other, fought for each other and encouraged one another.”