STAFF REPORTS
It was a banner weekend for the Lady Rebel soccer team, as they swept through the Marble Falls Mustang Winter Cup, claiming the championship on Saturday.
The team’s road to the title was a domineering one, as they defeated Austin Hyde Park 2-0, Austin McCallum 5-1 and Canyon Lake 1-0 to reach the championship game against Bandera.
In the title game, both teams completed regulation in a 0-0 tie, having to settle the match with a penalty kick shootout. With the aid of Junior Goalkeeper Mallory Willis, whom stopped Bandera’s final three attempts, the Lady Rebels won the shootout 6-4, claiming the championship.
Lady Rebel Head Coach Brent Holcomb lauded the sensational efforts made by Willis, as well as Senior Goalkeeper Sarah Sellstrom, both of whom earned tournament Co-MVP honors.
“Their play was critical. Both keepers played excellent throughout the tournament. In the Championship Game, Mallory (Willis) was chosen by Sarah (Sellstrom) to handle the shootout. They both did a phenomenal job,” stated Coach Holcomb
Holcomb also praised the remarkable efforts of the defense, which allowed only one regulation goal in four tournament matches.
“We have experienced, excellent athletes,” added Holcomb, “We defend well as a team. That is really important. This was a huge effort throughout the tournament, especially against offensively minded opponents, such as Bandera in the Championship game.”
Moving forward, Hays will host the 2013 Lady Rebel Cup before beginning their march towards district play.
“We need to keep good motivation. To learn from each other, play well as a team. We want to play well in the Rebel Cup. Ultimately, we believe that this team will play exceptionally well in district,” Holcomb said.
Due to a team dropping out of the tournament, the Lady Rebels will field two teams in the Lady Rebel Cup. Varsity Team 1 begins play against Reagan on Thursday at 11 am in Shelton Stadium. They will play again at 5 pm on Thursday against Lehman at the Barton Middle School Soccer Field.
Varsity Team 2 will play both of their Thursday games at Shelton Stadium. Game one will be against Akins at 9 am; Game two against Fredericksburg at 3 pm.
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