The boys and girls varsity teams advanced in qualifier matches on Friday, moving on to face the Charleston Catholic boys and girls for the championship today at 2 PM (boys) and 4 PM (girls) at Schoenbaum Stadium.

The boys took an early lead against Wood County Christian when Junior #11 Troy Silva sent one into the net during the 2nd minute of play, assisted by Senior #2 Ethan Karnes.  The Irish played well throughout the first half, keeping possession of the ball and preventing WCC from getting any shots on goal.  St. Joe cushioned the lead in the 58th minute when Junior #4 Evan Bolano scored on a shot assisted by Junior #15 Quinton Mays.

The girls also took an early lead in their match against Weirton Madonna. Senior # 13 Nikki Lobo scored in the 13th minute on a pass from Senior # 16 Emily Geotz. The Irish quickly upped their lead in the 14th minute when Senior #23 Hannah Edwards sent in a shot from just inside the 18 yard box.  Irish defense limited Madonna attack opportunities until the 38th minute, when a scramble in the box off a Weirton Madonna corner kick allowed an Irish own goal. Encouraged by their score in the first half, Weirton came out in the 2nd, pressuring for another goal.  They found the net again in the 55th minute when #21 Courtney Moss scored off a pass just inside the 18 yard box.  St. Joe answered back in the 63rd minute on a breakaway goal by #23 Hannah Edwards.  The Irish sealed their win in the 73rd minute on a goal by Junior # 18 Lydia Peirson, assisted by # 13 Nikki Lobo.

The boys team plays Charleston Catholic on 9/11 for the championship at 2 PM.  The girls team plays Charleston Catholic on 9/11 for the championship at 4 PM.