Cody Leist

PDT Sports Writer

JACKSON—Bill Hale knew his Valley soccer team was up against a large task going up against state contender Berlin Hiland in Saturday’s Division III Southeast District Final at Jackson High School.

He told his team to play their game and see how it would turn out. Despite a tough effort given by the Indians, the Hawks proved to be too much in a 7-1 contest.

“This is the first time my seniors got to play in the district and I want my freshman, sophomores and juniors realize they could get back here every year,” Hale said. “That’s our goal for us and now that they’ve proven they can do it. It’s the first time in 14 years we’ve been here.”

Hunter Herrera and Cole Reynolds each had a pair of goals in the win. Bryce Romanello, who had the overtime goal to send Valley to the finals, scored the lone goal for the Indians.

Cody Leist can be reached at 740-353-3101, ext. 242, or cleist@heartlandpublications.com.

Valley 1 0 — 1

Hiland 5 2 — 7

Scoring Summary:

First Half: Hiland—Grant Stutzman (Brennan Coil); Hiland—Hunter Herrera (unassisted); Hiland—Trey Riggle (Cameron Stutzman); Hiland—Cole Reynolds (unassisted); Patrick Straits (Alec Mast); Valley—Bryce Romanello (Tyler Montavon).

Second Half: Hiland—Hunter Herrera (Grant Stutzman); Hiland—Cole Reynolds (penalty kick).

SAVES: Valley—Scott Adkins (11); Hiland—Tyler Hochstetler (2), Taylor Rayber (2).

RECORDS: Valley 15-2-1; Hiland 13-4-1.