Columbus Men’s soccer advances to the Final Four after a 2-0 win over the Cedartown Bulldogs Tuesday night.
Going into a game with such high stakes, CHS prepared by practicing realistic game situations in order to have an idea of potential problems that could take place during the game.
The Blue Devils have a tough regular season, so the players are put in high-pressure situations to prepare them for the same pressure that comes with playoff games.
At 7 pm on Tuesday night, CHS students filled the bleachers at Walden Soccer Complex in support of the men’s soccer team.
“Our student body has been very supportive of our journey in this historic season,” remarked Jackson Biggs (10), “ and it feels so good going into a game knowing that your school is right behind you.”
In the first half, CHS allowed the opposing team to dictate the flow of the game, changing their play style and strategy. Going into halftime, the team had to strategize and take back control of the game.
At the beginning of the second half, Dante Johnson(12) took on the defenders and dribbled them into the box, creating the perfect opportunity for Timaj Lester (10) and Michael Wood (12) to attack the ball and score.
“It was a great feeling after being tied at halftime and just coming in the second half and scoring,” stated Lester (10).
Johnson (12) secured the game later in the second half, sealing the win for Columbus.
The teams combined for a total of 20 fouls, but the physical play didn’t stop the Blue Devils from netting 2 tallies, both in the second half, to shut out the Bulldogs 2-0.
Previous to this, the soccer team clinched a 2-1 victory over the Jefferson Dragons, just five days before this major win.
Although the team faced a 2-0 loss against the Dragons last season, the boys remained confident that they were the better team and came back stronger.
"It’s always great when you can get some revenge over a team that’s beat you before,” remarked Coach Torres.” The soccer team has done this all season, having beat teams like McIntosh, Pacelli, Starr’s Mill, and Lagrange, which they had previously lost to.
The team aims to keep the momentum going this week as they prepare for the Final Four against Southeast Whitfield, with the upcoming game being scheduled for Friday, April 29th.