Barnesville, GA – In a nail-biter that went all the way to penalty kicks, the Lamar County Trojans girls’ soccer team suffered a heartbreaking loss in the Elite 8 round of the GHSA State playoffs. The Trojans were knocked out by the Eagles of the Atlanta International School, ending their hopeful journey this season.
The game kicked off at Trojan Field with Atlanta International scoring the first goal at 27:24 in the first half, followed by another at 22:35, taking a 2-0 lead into halftime. Despite the deficit, the Trojans left the field at halftime with a resolve to turn the game around.
The second half saw Lamar County fighting hard to change the course of the game. Senior De’Shunna Bowles sparked hope with a goal at 26:15. The Trojans continued to create chances, showing their determination and grit. As the clock was ticking down, sophomore Ava Bushby delivered a dramatic moment, scoring a powerful goal from a deflection with just 47 seconds left in regulation, sending the game into overtime.
Goalkeeper, Ava Lonberg’s overtime performance is worthy of noting. She made several saves to keep the Trojans in the game. However, the fate of the match was ultimately decided in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout, where the Trojans fell 6-4 to Atlanta International.
This loss marks the end of the road for Lamar County in this year’s playoffs, but the team displayed commendable spirit and resilience throughout the game. As the season concludes, there’s a significant change on the horizon for the Georgia High School Association. Starting next season, private schools will no longer compete with public schools in playoff competitions, a decision that promises to reshape the competitive landscape for public schools
The Trojans will look to rebound for next season, but the Lamar County community applauds them for their efforts and hard work. As for the graduating seniors, this game will be remembered for their spirited efforts and the thrilling finale to their high school soccer careers.
Grant Turner is the editor of the Barnesville Buzz and an educator, coach, and writer based in Barnesville, Georgia. He shares stories that bridge community, faith, and personal growth. In addition to teaching and coaching, Grant is Director of Musical Worship and a Sunday School teacher at New Hope Baptist Church in Zebulon, Georgia. He lives in Barnesville with his wife, Haley.
