In a moment that will be remembered for generations, the Texas Panhandle finally has its first-ever UIL state champion soccer team. The Randall Lady Raiders etched their names into the history books with a thrilling victory over the Wimberley Lady Texans in the 4A Division 2 State Final on Thursday.
A Match for the Ages
The game itself was a rollercoaster of emotion and effort — a true showcase of heart, grit, and determination. Wimberley came out hot, with Lillian Sandoval drawing first blood in the seventh minute, thanks to a pinpoint assist from Olivia Hendon. But Randall didn’t flinch.
With just under 10 minutes left in the first half, Ryan McClain leveled the score with a well-placed strike, set up beautifully by Brooklyn Hussey. And Randall wasn’t done yet — mere minutes later, Brooke French gave the Lady Raiders their first lead of the match with an assist from Kyndal McClain.
Heading into halftime up 2-1, the Lady Raiders had momentum on their side. But Wimberley refused to go quietly. Sandoval struck again in the 69th minute, completing her brace off a Haley Lopez assist, tying the game at 2-2. And from there, it was a defensive battle.
Endurance, Defense, and Grit
Despite Wimberley dominating possession during both overtime periods, Randall’s defense held firm. Goalkeeper Jani Contreras stepped up big with two crucial saves that kept Randall’s title hopes alive. With neither team able to find the winner in extra time, the state championship came down to one of the most nerve-wracking ways to decide a match — penalty kicks.
Penalty Kick Drama
The shootout was every bit as tense as the game itself. Both teams’ first five shooters found the back of the net. In sudden death, both teams missed their sixth attempt but buried their seventh. When Wimberley’s eighth shooter failed to convert, Randall’s Kyleigh McHugh stepped up with the weight of an entire region on her shoulders — and delivered.
With a confident strike, McHugh sealed the 7-6 win in the shootout, securing not only a state title for her team but making Randall the first team — boys or girls — from the Texas Panhandle to ever win a UIL state soccer championship.
A Season for the Books
The Lady Raiders cap off a magical season with a 23-5-1 record, a journey defined by teamwork, resilience, and an unshakable belief in their goal. Meanwhile, the Lady Texans close out their campaign at 24-1-2, with this championship game being their first loss since January 11.
Legacy Cemented
This win is bigger than just one team. It’s a milestone for an entire region that had never before tasted state soccer glory. The Randall Lady Raiders didn’t just win a title — they paved the way for future generations of Panhandle athletes to dream bigger.
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