by Macedonia, Ohio – The Walsh Jesuit Warriors defeated the Strongsville Mustangs, 2-1, on Tuesday night in the OHSAA state semifinal at Boliantz Stadium in Macedonia.
The Mustangs were looking to make back-to-back appearances in the state final, and the Warriors their second appearance in three years. Strongsville got off to a great start as junior Paige Kudla found the back of the net at the 27:22 mark of the first half.
Walsh Jesuit would respond, as Hannah Pachan nailed a header off an assist with 10 minutes left to knot the score at 1.
Walsh Jesuit had multiple chances to take the lead in the second half due to their attack.
After a foul on Strongsville led to a free kick, Pachan, a Virginia Tech commit found the back of the net for the second time with 8:42 to play, giving the Warriors a 2-1 lead.
The defense made it hold out, setting off a celebration among the team and the student section.
Walsh Jesuit advances to the state championship on Friday against Olentangy Liberty on Friday afternoon at Columbus Crew Stadium.
Video highlights below:
