Jacob Eastburn
The Highlanders fought their last fight at the State 3A Soccer Tournament on May 9 against St. Joseph (Conway) Catholic School. The girls’ team played at 11 a.m., and the boys at 5 p.m. Both teams left the school with a send-off from all students from kindergarten through high school after Forest Hill graciously provided breakfast for players and coaches. The state tournament took place at Anstaff Soccer Complex in Harrison.
The Lady Highlanders were the first to take on St. Joseph. They fought well, but St. Joseph came out strong, ending the first half 4-0. In the second half, the girls held St. Joseph to only one goal, ending the game 5-0. Mackenzie Meyer, a captain, goalie and senior, saved 12 shots on goal. This was her final game with the Highlanders.
The boys started the game off right with a goal by Griffin Taylor with Jose Rangel assisting. St. Joseph scored a goal in the last few minutes of the first half, and the half ended 1-1. In the second half, both teams fought very hard, but St. Joseph scored, and the game ended 2-1. Preston Hyatt, a sophomore and goalie, saved 13 shots on goal.
The Highlander soccer season has ended, but a new season is right around the corner with exciting new developments expected. The Highlanders fully expect to make the run to State again in the 2020 season.