The Lincoln County Lady Patriots secured a 3-1 victory over the Garrard County Lady Lions in the first round of the 2024 45th District Girls Soccer Tournament, ending Garrard County's hopes for back-to-back regional bids. The match, held on October 7 at Lincoln County High School, saw the Lady Pats avenging their earlier season loss and advancing to the district final.

Garrard County entered the tournament with high expectations, having posted a solid 9-7-1 season record and a recent 4-0 victory over Lincoln County in early September. Their hopes were buoyed by standout performances throughout the season, including their leading scorer, Paisley Poynter, and goalkeeper Erica Heibenthal. However, despite their strong form, the Lady Lions were unable to replicate that previous success against a determined Lincoln County team.

Lincoln County’s Lady Patriots, playing on their home turf, demonstrated resilience throughout the game. Despite their own challenges during the season, where they finished with an 8-10-1 record, they were prepared to defend their ground. Led by Head Coach Lewis Cummins, who achieved a personal milestone with his 40th career win for the Lady Patriots, Lincoln County outplayed Garrard County to move forward in the tournament.

Coach Cummins now also holds the record for the most career wins for both the Lady Patriots and the Lincoln County boys’ soccer program, further solidifying his legacy within the school’s soccer history.

The Lady Patriots capitalized on their opportunities throughout the match, with a well-rounded performance that saw them net three goals, enough to outlast the Lady Lions, who could only respond with a single goal. While Garrard County had been hopeful of advancing to the regional tournament for a second consecutive year, their loss marks the end of a season that promised much but ultimately fell short at this crucial stage.

Despite the loss, Garrard County showcased resilience throughout the game, with Ava Warren (#10) scoring the team’s only goal. Erica Heibenthal (#23), the team’s goalkeeper, played a crucial role in defending the goal, making 7 saves.

As Lincoln County now prepares for the district final, they will carry the momentum of this victory into what promises to be another challenging encounter. For Garrard County, despite the disappointment of the defeat, the Lady Lions can look back on a season that featured strong performances and progress, even if it did not result in the historic back-to-back regional bids they had hoped for.

The crowd at Lincoln County High School witnessed a competitive match that highlighted the intensity of district tournament play, with both teams putting forth their best efforts in this high-stakes contest. Ultimately, it was Lincoln County's determination and execution that saw them through, giving their supporters and Coach Cummins plenty to celebrate.

For Garrard County, the focus now shifts to the future as they look to build on this season's lessons and come back stronger next year.