Land O' Lakes might have been the underdog to 8-time state champion American Heritage (Plantation), but the Gators never backed down from a stacked Patriots squad. It took overtime for American Heritage to win their third straight state title, as a shot from Dejah Cason in the 83rd minute found the back of the net for the 2-1 win.
The Gators (24-2) were making their first title game appearance since 2003, and struggled to find much offensive flow in the first half. But the second half was a different story, with better possession and flow for Land O' Lakes. They finally broke through on a redirect goal from Victoria Cannata, her 40th of the season, to tie the game at 1. The Gators defense was also able to neutralize reigning Florida Dairy Farmers Miss Soccer Melanie Monteagudo, as they held her scoreless in the championship game for the first time since her freshman season.
The Patriots wasted no time getting on the board, as they scored off a set piece in the first minute - a free kick from Cheyenne Dennis that Emily Vasquez was able to finish. American Heritage also scored their two state semifinal goals off set pieces that involved Dennis and Vasquez.
American Heritage (21-1-2) wins their ninth state title in school history, second-best in FHSAA history.
For a full recap of the action, click on the video link.