Shepherd delivers game-winning goal to lead Whitley County past South Laurel 

WILLIAMSBURG — The Whitley County Lady Colonels picked up a hard-fought district win Tuesday, defeating South Laurel, 2-1, in girls’ soccer action.

Jerrica Shepherd came up clutch, scoring both of Whitley County’s goals, including the game-winner with just six minutes remaining.

“Big win for the Lady Colonels,” Whitley County coach Nick Shearer said. “A 2-1 win with both goals coming from freshman Jerrica Shepherd, and an assist from Kiera Cheek. Our defense locked it down for most of the game and our keeper Rheagen Strickland made a few clutch saves in the final minutes. We are excited about the first district win this season and are now looking forward to our next opponent.”

Gracie Hoskins gave the Lady Cardinals an early 1-0 lead nine minutes into the match, but Shepherd quickly answered, finding the back of the net at the 15-minute mark to even the score at one apiece.

The second half remained tight until Shepherd delivered her decisive strike late, lifting Whitley County to the one-goal victory.

The win improved the Lady Colonels to 5-3 overall and 1-2 in 49th District play. South Laurel, still searching for its first win of the season, fell to 0-6 overall and 0-1 in district competition.

The victory also marked a notable milestone for Whitley County, as it was the first time since the 2019 and 2020 seasons that the Lady Colonels have beaten South Laurel in consecutive games.