The Lady Pioneers pose together after the game.

Last week, the Gentry Lady Pioneer soccer team, also known as the current 4A defending state champions, achieved the conference championship title after playing back-to-back games.

On Thursday, May 5th, Gentry took on the former conference champions, the Shiloh Saints, at their home stadium. Although the Saints scored early in the first half, Gentry’s “Dynamic Duo,” senior Ana Linch and junior Amber Ellis, were both able to put up some points. Ellis scored towards the end of the first half with a shot near the 18-yard-line, while Linch scored on a powerful shot in the second half. The final score was a 2-1 win for the Lady Pioneers.

Gentry’s Ellis explained, “We were all very excited to get the win over Shiloh because they had beat us last year at their home field. Our teamwork was awesome throughout the game. I can’t wait to see what the state tournament has in store for us this week!”

Their next and final conference game was played the next day, May 6th, against Prairie Grove. Ellis started the game off with three early goals within the first fifteen minutes of the game. Following her on the scoreboard was senior Haley Borgeteien-James, who scored on a quick shot to the bottom left corner of the goal. Linch followed her with a two goals later in the game. Towards the end of the second half, however, Prairie Grove was able to sneak a goal in. The final goal was scored by senior Brieann Ward, who is playing through a severe knee injury. Because it was the last home game, Gentry celebrated with a senior night ceremony in between the girls and boys game.  

Afterwords, Linch stated, “I’m very proud of my team and what we’ve accomplished. Now we’re ready to finish it!”

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