One of the most dominant programs in FHSAA history continued its historic state title streak, while another program won its first-ever state title on the first day of the FHSAA Soccer State Finals.
In the 1A Championship, St. Johns Country Day won its ninth state championship, and its sixth-straight title, the second-longest streak in FHSAA history. The Spartans defeated Lakeland Christian 2-0, behind goals from Payton Walton (2nd minute) and Abbey Newton (33rd minute).
Lakeland Christian had a strong performance from goalkeeper Taylor O'Byrne (3 saves). It's the third time the Vikings have lost to St. Johns Country Day in the championship game and the sixth-straight year that St. Johns Country Day has beat Lakeland Christian in the playoffs. The Spartans are currently ranked No. 1 in the nation, according to the USA Today/NSCAA poll.
The 2A Championship featured two teams that had advanced to their first-ever Final Fours, let alone the title game. Oxbridge Academy stormed back from a two-goal deficit with three goals in 21 minutes for a 3-2 victory over Montverde Academy.
Montverde controlled much of the first half and got on the board in the 34th minute with a goal from Shayla Smart. In the 38th minute, Smart struck again for the Eagles. She finishes the season with 30 goals.
With less than a minute before the end of the first half, Oxbridge Academy broke through on a goal from Allison Breed. Another goal from Breed in the 49th minute tied the game before Jordan Schaefer's 25-yard blast over Julia Curotolo's head provided the winning margin for the Thunderwolves.
The state soccer finals continue Thursday as the boys' championship games get underway. Lakeland Christian battles Maclay at 1 p.m. for the 1A Championship, while Berkeley Prep takes on West Shore at 4 p.m. with the 2A title on the line.