The Fannin County High School (FCHS) Lady Rebels made history with a big 4-1 win over Thomasville to advance to the Elite Eight in the state championship hunt.
Nerves were at an all-time high as the first half started with both teams battling for ground. The Lady Rebels earned the upper hand with a pass from Emma Richardson to Annabel Lillard for the first and only goal scored in the first half.
Just after the half, Hannah Sosebee found the back of the net to add another goal to the Lady Rebels’ total. Taylor Poland got in on the scoring action with just over 14 minutes left in the game. Shortly after, Poland found Sosebee with a pass adding another point for Fannin and two goals for Sosebee.
The Lady Rebels’ defense sealed the win with a combined 23 steals and 8 saves.
Goalkeeper Rachael Jessen pocketed eight crucial saves for the Lady Rebels.
Sosebee and Hannah McSwain led the team in defensive steals at five each, followed by Kinsley Sullivan with four. Aaliyah Green had three defensive steals. Both Poland and Stephanie Kirk earned two steals each. Richardson, Karmah Eaton and Madison Ponton all had one steal.
The Lady Rebels will host the third round of the state playoff against Pace Academy Monday, April 25.
Head Coach Nancy Jessen said, “This is the first time the FCHS Lady Rebels have advanced to the Elite Eight in the GHSA Soccer Playoffs. We are so excited!”
She continued with, “thanks to all the fans that came to cheer on the Lady Rebels.”