By Michael Lindsay
The Cumberland County Jets are soccer district champions for the fourth time in five seasons following Saturday’s 3-0 victory over Livingston Academy in the District 7-2A title game at DeKalb County.
Following a scoreless first half, the Jets scored all three goals in the final 30 minutes of the contest.
“Livingston really had us working in the first half,” said Cumberland County head coach Cub Whitson. “We just couldn’t get through. I don’t feel like we were playing as bad as the boys felt like we were playing. Livingston was doing a great job of defending their 18 and had a good offside trap. It took us a while to get adjusted.”
Gabriel Alva struck first as an assist from freshman Graham Davidson set up Alva one-on-one with the keeper, where he finished the shot to give Cumberland County a 1-0 lead with 27:23 remaining.
“We talked about finding each other and making a few extra passes,” said Whitson. “I can’t wait to watch that one on film again. Gabriel was able to side-step the keeper and sink the goal.”
The Jets hit the dagger with 5:59 left as Evan Shaffer rebounded a shot in front of the net for a goal to give his team a 2-0 lead. Davidson tacked on his goal 1:14 later as he connected on a shot from the left side outside the 18 to give Cumberland County a 3-0 victory.
Saturday’s championship wrapped up a clean sheet for keeper Jamie Perez, who didn’t give up a goal the entire district tournament.
The Jets and Wildcats have both advanced to the Region 4-2A tournament as Cumberland County will host Franklin while Livingston Academy will face Central Magnet at Siegel High School. Franklin at Cumberland County is scheduled for 7 p.m.
“It’s always massive to win districts,” said Whitson. “Winning this one is rewarding, but we’re always looking to keep going. Unfortunately, we only have one day off before hosting Franklin. It’s all about recovery and being smart.”
