On Jan. 22 at 7pm, the girls soccer team was standing on the field facing the St. Petersburg Green Devils, knowing that they had to win this game if they wanted to move on to the Regional Semi Finals next week.

St. Petersburg had kickoff, but PHU quickly took control of the ball. The game began slowly, with PHU connecting passes in their offensive half of the field. The first goal by PHU was the result of a cross in front of the goal with an assist from Samira Al-Nasser and a finish into the back of the net by Kathryn Huapaya.

The second goal was the result of a corner kick by midfielder, Amanda Elsey with an assist by Kayla Mouton and a volley over the keeper by Shalisa Crowell. Palm Harbor had possession for the majority of the first half with only a few break aways from St. Petersburg.

There was one instance when a foul kick was taken right outside the box by St. Petersburg number 18 and a shot by number 22. PHU goalkeeper, Melonie Diaz had a great save and tipped the ball over the goal resulting in a corner kick and a cleared ball out of the defense.

PHU had kickoff for the second half and applied tons of pressure on St. Petersburg defense. Although there were far more opportunities on goal this half for PHU, possession went down allowing the Green Devils a couple of great opportunities for pressure. Palm Harbor got a little sloppy giving up some chances at goal, but still maintained control of the game.  Despite a 2-0 lead by PHU, St. Petersburg fought all the way through the game.

Time was called by the referees right after the Green Devils were rewarded with a last opportunity at goal. The score of the game between East Lake and Manatee was announced as a 3-0 victory for East Lake. Palm Harbor will play East Lake for the semi-regional finals next Tuesday.

“For the next game, we need to be ready for how quickly East Lake will come out with pressure since they are not happy that we beat them 3-1 last game,” assistant PHU Coach Southard said.

“We just need to work on connecting passes more and adding more pressure. We really need to work on finishing our opportunities,” Elsey said.

The game next Tuesday Jan 27 will begin at 7pm at Palm Harbor.