West Des Moines Valley edged Ankeny Centennial 1‑0 in the Class 3A girls state soccer semifinal on Tuesday, securing a spot in the championship match.
A Narrow Victory
Olivia Rotich struck the decisive blow in the opening half, heading home a corner kick that slipped past Centennial’s defense. The goal, set up by a precise delivery from midfielder Saylor Horsley, gave Valley a 1‑0 lead that they would protect for the remainder of the contest.
Valley goalkeeper Reagan Gardner was the difference maker, producing a series of high‑quality saves that denied Centennial any equaliser. His positioning and quick reflexes kept the opposition at bay despite a barrage of attacks in the second half.
Centennial’s Strong Season
Ankeny Centennial finished the year with a 16‑3‑1 record, a testament to a balanced attack and disciplined defending. The team generated several close chances, including a late header that rattled the crossbar, but could not find the net.
Coach Chris Allen praised his squad’s effort, noting that the narrow defeat will not diminish what he called a “remarkable” campaign. The team’s chemistry and resilience were evident throughout the match.
The Valley defense, anchored by captain Kayle Pezzetti and defender Rebecca Flick, limited Centennial’s scoring opportunities and cleared numerous balls from dangerous areas. Their collective effort allowed Gardner the space to command the backline confidently.
Looking ahead, Valley will meet Waukee Northwest in the 3A championship game. Both teams have displayed complementary strengths — Valley’s disciplined backline and Northwest’s dynamic midfield — setting the stage for a highly anticipated showdown.
The upcoming final promises to be a test of endurance and tactical acumen, with both coaches expected to tweak strategies based on the semifinal performances. Fans across Iowa are eager to see whether Valley can translate its defensive solidity into offensive firepower when it matters most.