Kilgore Ladydogs defeat Sulphur Springs 6-4 in OT in area championship

Published 5:06 pm Thursday, March 27, 2025

ATHENS — The Kilgore Ladydogs (18-3-2) prevailed in their toughest match yet, defeating Sulphur Springs (18-4-1) 6-4 in overtime in the Class 4A Division 1 Region 2 area final on Tuesday.

With its multiple lead changes and playing in 90 degree weather, the Ladydogs hadn’t experienced a game like that all season, said Head Coach Daniel Garcia.

“It was very exciting, but at the same time, nerve wracking,” said Garcia. “We just kept having to fight. Thankfully, we stuck together as a group. A lot of communication. Everyone was working hard and playing for one another.”

Kilgore stared on the right foot, scoring in the first two minutes. A couple of mistakes gave the Ladycats a 2-1 lead, but Kilgore managed to tie it up 2-2 at halftime. They fell behind by one goal again, tied it up once more at 3-3 and then led 4-3. In the final seconds of the regular period, the Ladycats scored to send them into overtime. The determined Ladydogs took control of the game then, scoring once in each overtime period.

“We had a bunch of leaders out there yesterday. It really pushed us over the finish line,” said Garcia. “Phenix Rivers was a handful on top against the Sulphur Springs defense. She was able to score a hat-trick. Esperanza Garcia and Julian Cedillo in the middle, they worked well together. In the back, Reese Burgess and Brittany Yzaguirre definitely stepped up when we needed it the most.”

In addition to Rivers’ three goals, Lexi Lara, Maci McNew and Angelica Canchola scored a goal each.

Kilgore will move on to the regional semifinal to face Celina (24-1), the reigning 4A state champs starting 5:30 p.m. on Friday, March 28 at Sulphur Springs.

“Sulphur Springs gave us a great battle. Their coach over there, Coach Tavera, is a great friend of mine, and I knew they were going to be well prepared,” said Garcia. “Preparation leading up to yesterday was very important for us… It was a big test and hopefully we can take that into playing Celina.”