Two dominating performances from Jacksonville-area powerhouse programs stole the show on the first championship day of the FHSAA girls soccer finals. St. Johns Country Day won their fourth straight 1A Championship, taking down Lakeland Christian for the second straight year, by a score of 4-0, while Bolles won their first state title since 2008, defeating American Heritage (Delray Beach) 5-0 in the 2A title game.
2014 Gatorade Player of the Year Bri Folds of Lakeland Christian led a powerful Vikings attack, but the Spartans dominated possession the entire game, outshooting Lakeland Christian 20-1. Two goals from Chelsea Burns (Duke commit) were more than enough for St. Johns Country Day. Payton Crews assisted on both of Burns' goals, while Kim Swiggett and Abbey Newton also scored for the Spartans. Their fourth consecutive state title is now the third-longest championship streak in FHSAA history. Their seven total state championships also ranks third in the state record book.
In the next title game, Bolles shocked the defending champion Stallions, starting with a third-minute strike from Rachel Dias. Another goal from Dias came in the 19th minute, and the rout was on for the Bulldogs, as they won their fifth state title in school history. Leah Ferlin scored two goals and had an assist on Dias' second goal, while Player of the Game Leila Azari assisted on two goals and scored the final goal of the night. Sophomores Ferlin and Azari finished the season with a combined total of 50 goals.
The FHSAA girls soccer state finals continue Friday night on Bright House Sports Network (Channel 47/HD1147), as Land O' Lakes takes on American Heritage (Plantation) for the 3A Championship at 8 PM.
For a full recap of the first two championship games, click on the video link.