Locals capture area title

The Newport Beach-based AYSO Region 97 girls’ under-10 All-Star team won the Area Q championships over the weekend.

The locals defeated a squad from Irvine, 2-1, in a very competitive title game on Sunday.

Earlier Sunday, the locals defeated Tustin, 2-1, in overtime in one semifinal.

Sophia Thomas had the winning goal in the final, while Kate Hess scored the winning goal in the semifinal.

Along with Thomas and Hess, Nicole Ryu continued to spark the offense with goals in every game of the tournament.

Having played 17 games in 37 days, the girls maintained great defense, led by the efforts of Brooke Morgan and Becca Classen.

Avery Allemann stood out on defense in the final for the winners.

In the last minutes of the final, goalie Olivia Belida made a fantastic save to protect the lead.

Sterling Solomon and JoJo Flanagan played critical roles throughout the last two contests with excellent goalkeeping and offensive pressure, respectively.

Abbie Jensen continued her strong play in pool play with her unrelenting offensive attack.

Many of the girls played their best soccer during the weekend.

The locals are 11-2-4 and will play in the sectional championships on Feb. 18 and 19.

— Reader submission