Three of Osceola County's soccer teams made it to the regional semifinal round of the FHSAA playoffs thanks to wins Tuesday in the quarterfinals. Here's how Friday went.
CLASS 5A BOYS: In a thrilling contest that demonstrated the unpredictable nature of high school soccer, River Ridge High School emerged victorious with a 2-1 comeback win against Gateway (17-3). River Ridge came in from New Port Richey to upset the Panthers at home.
The match, which featured momentum swings and dramatic moments, showcased both teams' competitive spirit and desire to continue. Gateway struck first through senior midfielder Jose Calderon, taking an early lead that energized the Panthers' fans. However, River Ridge (13-7-2) mounted an impressive second-half comeback.
The turning point came in the 60th minute when senior forward Landen Hebb found the back of the net, bringing River Ridge level at 1-1. The visitors' pressure continued to mount, and their persistence paid off in the 75th minute when sophomore forward Alton Murati capitalized on a defensive miscommunication between Gateway's backline and goalkeeper to slot home what proved to be the winning goal.
Gateway's challenge grew steeper in the 70th minute when senior midfielder Edgardo Vazquez received a red card, forcing the Panthers to play the crucial final stretch with 10 men, and River Ridge took full advantage of the numerical superiority, controlling possession through winning aerial duels and effectively shutting down Gateway's attack.
The victory was particularly noteworthy given Gateway's stellar season record, proving that River Ridge's tactical discipline and persistence could overcome even the most formidable opponents. The visitors' ability to adapt their strategy, particularly after Gateway was reduced to 10 men, demonstrated their tactical maturity.
Despite the loss, Gateway's performance, particularly in the first half, showed why they've been one of the area's top teams this season. River Ridge will play Region 2 top seed New Smyrna Beach on Wednesday.
CLASS 7A BOYS: Celebration (14-4-1) found out why Lake Nona (14-1-4) is the top seed in Region 2. The Storm traveled to Orange County and fell to the Lions, 3-0. Lake Nona gained an upper hand quickly with goals in the 6th and 14th minute, with Moa Silva scoring one and assisting on the other.
Lake Nona will take on Jupiter, seeded No. 7 in the eight-team regional, on Wednesday. Jupiter has already dispatched Orlando-area teams Windermere and Freedom in these playoffs.
CLASS 7A GIRLS: The end of the road game for the Harmony Longhorns (13-6-1) as well. After beating Vero Beach on Tuesday for the first time in school history, Harmony fell to Region 3 No. 1 seed and state power Jupiter, 7-1.
