NE Jones, Laurel split soccer games

Laurel split a pair of prep soccer games on Tuesday evening at Blair Field at Watkins Stadium. In the guys game, LHS won 1-0, while in the girls game, NEJ blanked the Lady Tornadoes 6-0.

In the girls game, Morgan Pace and Brooke Blackledge led the way with two goals each and an assist. Morgan Mansell and Katie Johnson both scored a goal. Lacey Guthrie and Callie Smith each had assists.

Lady Tigers head coach Scott Tyson was pleased with the play of his team.

"The girls did a really good job out there tonight," he said. "Hayley Davidson and Brooke Blackledge did a good job defending Laurel out there tonight. With the win it gives us a chance to win the district if we beat Purvis on Thursday night."

NEJ improves to 12-1 overall and 4-0 in the division.

Laurel Tornado head coach Julio Martinez was pleased with his team's winning effort.

"I'm very proud of our guys," he said. "Soccer is a second sport to some of these athletes, and for them to come out and play tough all season says a lot about their character."

Martinez was also excited about the chance to advance to the playoffs. "With the win, we earn a chance in the playoffs," he said. "We hope to keep the motivation going into Friday night's contest against South Jones. Give all the credit to Northeast Jones because they played extremely tough out here tonight."

Daniel Attaway scored the lone goal for the Tornadoes.

Laurel improves to 9-3-1 on the season. NEJ finishes the season at 6-6.

NEJ hosts Purvis Thursday night, while Laurel travels to South Jones Friday night. Game time is set for 5:30 and 7 p.m..