Scots Blank Poteet to Reach Semifinals

By Sam Weiger / Contributor

GARLAND — In a closely contested, high-stakes playoff game, Highland Park prevailed against Mesquite Poteet on Tuesday, with star players stepping up and the Scots dominating one-on-one possession battles.

After holding on for a 1-0 victory in the Class 5A Division II Region II final at a windy Homer B. Johnson Stadium, the Scots are heading to the state semifinals for the first time since 1987, and the second time in program history.

They will carry a 14-game unbeaten streak into a Saturday showdown against Saginaw, which upset El Paso Bel Air on Tuesday. The winner will meet either Liberty Hill or Montgomery Lake Creek for the crown on April 11 in Georgetown.

HP’s Jake Rhine, son of FC Dallas legend Bobby Rhine, shifted the early momentum away from the Pirates by repeatedly using his speed to exploit Poteet’s defensive gaps. Rhine broke the deadlock midway through the first half, bending a powerful shot off the post and into the net.

“Our focused game plan, designed to secure an early goal and control the match, was executed with outstanding efficiency,” said HP head coach Scott Turner. “Our exceptional goalkeeping, defense, and team possession were key to our success.”

The Scots (18-1-3) carried that lead into halftime, with a 13-3 shot advantage. Their resilience was tested in the second half, as they faced a more intense Poteet team and fought against a challenging headwind.

While Poteet (18-4-3) increased its second-half shot volume, the attempts were largely ineffective long-range efforts, as the Scots’ defense held firm within the penalty area.

With 20 minutes left, Poteet’s David Mendoza fired a magnificent long-distance shot, but Scots goalkeeper Justin Ratner responded with a breathtaking, full-extension dive, keeping his team ahead.

The strong second-half headwind significantly hampered HP’s offensive output, but midfielder Jack O’Grady stepped up. He effectively controlled the game’s tempo, skillfully playing keep-away and drawing fouls to run down the clock.

The closing minutes were a whirlwind of desperate attacks from the Pirates, turning the game into a nail-biting, physical contest. However, despite a late corner kick, HP’s defense remained resolute.

“Our adjustments in the second half proved successful in minimizing Poteet’s scoring threats,” Turner said. “The sheer resilience of this group has been pivotal in our progression, and their ability to navigate challenges is a testament to their exceptional character.”