Ratner, Scots Survive in Playoff Opener

While facing the nerve-wracking prospect of a playoff opener being decided by penalty kicks, Highland Park goalkeeper Justin Ratner remained cool and calm.

The senior saved the day, literally, as the Scots advanced past Frisco Memorial with a 3-0 win in the shootout following a 2-2 tie in regulation on Thursday in Richardson.

That sends the Scots (15-1-3) into a Class 5A Division II area round matchup against Lovejoy on Tuesday while also extending their unbeaten streak to 11 games.

Jack O’Grady and Jaron Pierce scored the regulation goals for HP, while Jake Rhine added a pair of assists. O’Grady, Jack Madsen, and Trey Shamburger found the net in the shootout.

In girls action, HP cruised to a 6-0 victory over Frisco Heritage in the 5A Division I bi-district round in McKinney.

Addie Brink and Reese Liner tallied two goals apiece to lead the offensive onslaught for the Lady Scots (17-3-2). Morgan Williams and Whitney Gross also scored, while Gross and Lucy Cox each contributed a pair of assists.

After its 13th shutout of the season, HP advances to face McKinney North in the area round on Tuesday.