By BRAD VICTOR
Herald Writer
EVERETT – South Whidbey goalie Kellie Horn saved the day.
Horn saved a game-high 12 shots on goal and saved the game in a shootout, as well, stopping two of four Washougal penalty shots as the Falcons outscored Washougal 4-2 in the shootout for a 1-0 victory in a Class 2A girls soccer state playoff game Saturday at Goddard Stadium.
With the score 2-2 in the shootout, South Whidbey forward Jennifer Barrow scored on the right side of the goal for the go-ahead and eventual winning goal as Washougal could not get another kick past Horn.
“Without Kellie our season would be over, she is a great goalie and has had a great season I am so glad she’s on my team,” said South Whidbey coach Paul Arand.
The first half was a defensive battle. The two teams combined for only four shots on goal and kept the game in the middle of the field for the most part. Both goalies were superb and played pretty far out in front of their respected goals.
This seemed to work for both goalies: Horn and Emilie Goodling of Washougal. They were both very aggressive leading into the shootout.
South Whidbey kept the pressure on Washougal to earn the victory and extend its season.
The Falcons had amazing energy and poise throughout the game, and it showed in the end as the Falcons controlled the tempo.
“We played a very good team today. I feel bad for my girls, they played tough and deserved better,” said Washougal coach Paul Della Valle.
Barrow had a sensational game, leading South Whidbey (15-5) to the semifinals by her excellent all-around play.
Falcon sophomore midfielder Jaci Gutzmer had a great game as well. It seemed like she was everywhere. Gutzmer came up with huge momentum stops. She was always in the way of anything Washougal tried to do offensively.
South Whidbey will play the Ephrata-Naches winner in the semifinals noon Friday at Federal Way Stadium.
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