Staff Reports
CENTRE – Junior forward Ava Haygood scored four goals, including the 100th of her career, in leading the Cherokee County Lady Warriors to a 6-0 soccer match victory over Munford in the first round of the Class 4A girls state playoffs on Monday.
Haygood is the first Cherokee County High School soccer player to ever score 100 career goals. She is also the all-time goal scorer for Cherokee County in both the boys and girls; ranks. Haygood has scored 39 goals this season.
“That is a feat only done by someone truly special,” Lady Warrior coach Paul Sewell said. “Ava has elite traits that consistently allows her to score goals. It’s something to be celebrated and has never happened in CCHS soccer history.
“She’s also surrounded by great teammates who have done a great job of helping her get here. I know she would agree that it takes a team effort to achieve 100 career goals.”
Berkley Isaacs and Isabell Segura netted the other two Lady Warrior goals. Isaacs’ goal was her 22nd of the season.
Cali Martin and Bella Peace combined for the shutout on goal.
“Overall, it was a top-to-bottom team effort,” Sewell said. “I could not be more proud of these girls. They have been working extremely hard to not just make playoffs but advance. Our girls know the job is not done and the games only get harder.
Next up for the Lady Warriors is defending state champion St. John Paul II. The Lady Falcons defeated Wilson 10-0 in other first-round playoff action on Monday.
St. John Paul ended Cherokee County’s season last year in the Class 4A Final Four with a 9-0 decision. The rematch will take place on Thursday at 7 p.m. in Centre.
“I think Munford did a great job of playing physical, and that will serve us well as we prepare for St. John Paul II,” Sewell said. “As we look forward to later this week, I ask our fans and community for their support. We need the stands packed and loud.”
