Palm Harbor University, Sunlake, and Cypress Creek Win in Girls Region Finals

Class 7A

Palm Harbor University 1, Newsome 1 (PHU advances on PKs)

Senior goalkeeper Keely Cash’s crucial save in the penalty shootout propelled Palm Harbor University past Newsome in a tense defensive battle. The Hurricanes avenged their only loss of the season during Champions League play, with Ava Tutas scoring the lone goal for PHU. Moving on in the state tournament, PHU dominated possession and Cash played a pivotal role in the shootout.

Class 6A

Sunlake 1, Steinbrenner 0

Freshman Jaeda Russell’s goal, assisted by senior Mady Perez, secured Sunlake’s victory over Steinbrenner. The Seahawks controlled the tempo, with Russell leading the attack and goalkeeper Katie Mackleer recording her seventh shutout of the season. Sunlake’s defense held firm against the Warriors’ pressure.

Lakewood Ranch 1, East Lake 0

Lakewood Ranch ended East Lake’s season with a closely contested win, advancing to face St. Thomas Aquinas in the state quarterfinals.

Class 5A

Cypress Creek 1, Innovation 0

Cypress Creek edged out Innovation with Junior Kate Henderson’s penalty kick as the game’s lone goal. Henderson’s clinical finish and goalkeeper Darcy Pittman’s saves secured the win for Cypress Creek.

Area State Tournament Schedule

At Lake Myrtle Sports Complex

Monday

Class 7A

No. 3 Lake Mary vs. No. 2 Palm Harbor University

Wednesday

Class 5A

No. 4 Cypress Creek at No. 1 Miami Lourdes

Thursday

Class 6A

No. 3 Sunlake vs. No. 2 Bartram Trail

Conclusion

Congratulations to Palm Harbor University, Sunlake, and Cypress Creek for their victories in the girls region finals. The competition was intense, but these teams showed their strength and determination. Best of luck to them in the upcoming state semifinals!

FAQs

Q: How did Palm Harbor University advance in the region finals?

A: Palm Harbor University advanced on penalties after a 1-1 draw with Newsome.

Q: Who scored the winning goal for Cypress Creek?

A: Junior Kate Henderson scored the winning goal for Cypress Creek with a penalty kick.