Scott Nickerson
Elmore Autauga News
The Stanhope Elmore High School girls’ soccer team beat Prattville 1-0 at 17 Springs Stadium in a match on Thursday March 19. The win marks the first time in program history that the Stanhope Elmore girls’ soccer team has ever beaten Prattville. The only goal of the match was scored in the 1st half by 8th grader Aryanna Ivey.
The Mustangs’ attack, led by Ivey, along with senior Chole Fultz, who leads the team with six goals on the season, had several additional scoring opportunities in the game. The Mustangs were able to keep possession on the Prattville side of the field for much of the game. But the Lions’ defense made several impressive stops to keep the game close.
“This win was a true testament to our team’s resilience and heart,” said Fultz. “Everyone played their best and gave 100% and it resulted in a truly memorable win.”
Stanhope Elmore’s back line was anchored by the Mustangs’ other captain, senior Emily Peterson. Along with goalkeeper Ramsey Grimes, the Mustangs have five shutouts this season, including three consecutive in victories over Calera, Elmore County, and Prattville.
“I would say it feels like the epitome of sports rivalry and joy! It feels really good,” said Peterson.
The play of the game, and perhaps the year to date for the Mustangs, came late with five minutes left. Grimes, the Mustangs goalkeeper came out to stop an attack, but the Lions were able to get a shot past her on the ground that appeared to be rolling into the goal for the game tying score. Evelyn Mendoza, another senior on the Mustangs’ back line, rushed over and kicked the ball away at the last possible moment, preserving the victory for Stanhope Elmore.
Stanhope Elmore will return to action after spring break, taking on Class 7A Enterprise on Monday, before traveling to Wetumpka to take on the Indians in an area matchup on Friday. The Mustangs and Indians tied 1-1 earlier this season in the Capital of Dreams tournament in Montgomery.
