ELLISVILLE - Perseverance was ultimately the factor for Northwest in Friday evening's Region 23 semifinal match against Holmes.
Despite
Mari Julia Delgado's goal in the 15th minute of the match, the Lady Rangers were unable to score again the rest of the way. On the other hand, the Northwest defense battled through serious pressure from Holmes throughout the second half, but succeeded in protecting the 1-0 lead until the final buzzer.
Northwest had a couple chances to add to its lead throughout the match, but Addi Roberts locked down to keep Holmes in striking distance. Meanwhile, the Lady Bulldogs also took their fair share of shots as well, but
Anna Kathryn Harrell managed to deliver the shutout in what was a career-defining effort.
For Delgado, the lone goal was her 14th of the season, putting her in sole possession as the Lady Rangers' leading scorer. It was also her team-leading fourth game-winner of the year.
Harrell tacked on nine saves, matching her second-highest total of the season. The Tupelo native improved to 17-1-0 between the posts and earned her 14th shutout of the season, continuing to gain separation in the Northwest record books.
With the victory, Northwest moved to 19-1 on the season and advanced to the Region 23 Championship match. The Lady Rangers will now turn their attention to Sunday evening's battle with Pearl River, who upset Jones College in penalty kicks in the other semifinal match.
Sunday's match will be carried on
jcbobcats.com/watch.
