IRVINE — The South Laurel Lady Cardinals soccer team advanced to their second Elite Eight appearance during the past three years with a convincing 2-0 win over Estill County.
The Lady Cardinals (14-6) turned in an impressive defensive effort throughout the contest, recording their fourth shutout of the season, and second in three games.
“I am so excited for this team,” South Laurel coach Lora Rison said. “They have put in the work and now it’s paying off.
“We came out very nervous in the first half, not settling the ball, and making rushed decisions,” she added. “Once we started connecting passes, and communicating we started possessing and controlling the ball. Estill was a good, physical team that was definitely prepared tonight. It was a close match, and proud that our girls fought until the final whistle.”
The game was scoreless in the first half with South Laurel misfiring on a couple of occasions, failing to score, but things changed during the second half.
The Lady Cardinals’ first goal came on an own goal by Estill County, giving South Laurel a 1-0 lead at the 50th minute mark.
Ella Rison pushed the Lady Cardinals’ advantage to 2-0 during the 71st minute as South Laurel out the game away.
