The last two girls’ All-A Classic sectional contest between University Heights Academy and Murray were decided in a shoot-out round. Murray won at their place two years ago, and the Lady Blazers returned the favor last year. There was no shoot-out drama Thursday night as Murray scored three goals in the second half to grab a 4-0 win and advance to the All-A Classic State Tournament Saturday in Frankfort.
UHA had the early momentum and were the aggressors on offense. A handball called on a Murray player gave the Lady Blazers an indirect kick in the 12th minute. Grace Pape’s kick caromed in front of the goal, and Emma Perry cleaned up to give the Lady Blazers the early 1-0 lead.
University Heights tacked on another goal when Addi Fourqurean fed Kate Cansler for the tally in the 27th minute. However, the momentum was short-lived as Makira Bomar rebounded a missed shot 30 seconds later and put Murray on the board for the first time.
The Lady Blazers got a couple of good looks early in the second half but were not able to convert. The Lady Tigers’ first shot of the second half resulted in the game-tying goal. Angela Gierhart, who has committed to play at Murray State, scored off at indirect kick from the corner in the 53rd minute. Madeline Howell scored just six minutes later to give Murray a 3-2 lead.
Murray got fortunate with six minutes left when a defender nearly put the ball in her own net. The deflection was just left of the goal and ended the Lady Blazers’ scoring threat. Murray added some final insurance when Gierhart converted a penalty kick off a Lady Blazer handball in the box.
UHA outshot Murray 14-11, including 7-5 in the second half but was kept off the scoreboard in the final 40 minutes.
Murray [4-4] has won 10 of the last 12 sectional meetings with the Lady Blazers.
University Heights [3-2] will host Madisonville Monday.
