Lady Trojans roll over Lakeland in opening round of regional soccer playoffs

Lakeland’s Jayla Rogers (14) finds herself trying to outrace New Kent’s Bianca Yates (2) and Sophia Jimenez (3) in a dash for the ball.

Robb Johnson photo

New Kent’s Lady Trojans are looking to make history by qualifying for a state berth. They took the first step on May 29.

Powered by a hat trick from Olivia Allen, New Kent coasted to an 8-0 victory over the visiting Lakeland Lady Cavaliers on their home field, which also marked the last contest in the complex as it will undergo renovations to become artificial turf this summer.

The Lady Trojans put their throttle on the gas from the onset of the competition. Freshman Quinn Fiel’s quick footwork notched her two consecutive goals to kick off the contest. Next, Regan Smith and Gretchen Smith would add a goal each, upping the home team’s advantage. Allen scored the first of her goals to close out the first half, with New Kent up comfortably to 5-0.

In the second half, Allen scored the first two goals of the frame to increase New Kent’s lead to 7-0. With 14:37 remaining on the scoreboard, Sophia Jimenez’s blast to the back of the net notched goal number eight, triggering the mercy rule to end the contest.

New Kent Lady Trojans’ Head Coach Stella Follett spoke about her team’s recognition and drive to extend their season.

“The girls have played every game like it was their last,” she said after the victory. “Our seniors have carried and led the energy that has continued all season.

“This program has continued to get better, and I am going to give the ultimate credit to those girls,” Follett continued. “I appreciate them for letting me be a part and helping guide them along the way.”