The Benton Lady Tigers took a big step toward winning their third district championship in the program’s four years with a 3-1 victory over Calvary Thursday night at Calvary.
Shelby Plunkett scored two goals as Benton improved to 8-3-3 overall and 5-0 in District 1, Division II.
The Lady Tigers can clinch at least a share of the district title with a victory over Northwood Wednesday. Benton defeated Northwood 12-0 in the first district meeting. Benton's final two district games are a Feb. 8 doubleheder against winless Woodlawn.
Kloee Davis had a big goal in the 32nd minute that gave the Lady Tigers a 2-0 lead. Kelsey Walker had an assist on one of Plunkett’s goals.
Lady Tigers coach Kyle Cox said Jenny Cox and Bridget Brown both played well on defense.
He also had high praise for Madi Sessions, who is also a standout on the basketball team.
“She anchored the defense,” Cox said. “She was all over the field.”
Davis’ goal came off a throw-in by Sessions.
Calvary, the defending champion, dropped to 6-6-1 overall and 5-2 in district.
In girls District 1-I play, Parkway shut out Captain Shreve 7-0.
Sara Funderburk had a hat trick for the Lady Panthers (11-8-3, 5-3). Madeline Wheelahan scored two goals. Allisyn Kelly and Tiffany Scott had one apiece.
Maddie Walter had three goals and three assists to lead Airline (11-12, 6-4) past Haughton.
Rebecca Shumate, Abby Booker, Mandy Sparkman, Ashley Faith, Bryleigh Smith, Melissa Beard and Anna Walter scored one goal apiece.
Beard had two assists. Sparkman, Booker and Anna Walker had one apiece.
In District 1-I boys play, Airline celebrated Senior Night with a victory over Haughton, and Parkway fell to Captain Shreve 3-1.
Matt Hanisee and Chris Galvin scored four goals each as Airline (23-2, 9-1) remained atop the district standings. Abdullah Rayyan scored twice. Will Coyer, Esteban Guevara and Art Villareal scored one apiece.
Jonathan Nasser gave Parkway a 1-0 lead against Shreve in the fourth minute on a corner kick, but the Gators rallied in the second half.
