HARKER HEIGHTS, TX — In a gritty Tuesday evening matchup that capped off the first half of District 12-6A play, the Temple Tem-Cats soccer team faced a tough road test against Harker Heights. Despite a strong start and a late-game rally, the Tem-Cats ultimately fell to the Lady Knights in a 4-2 contest.

The result leaves Temple with a 3-3 record in district play as they reach the midway point of the season.

First Half Dominance

Temple came out of the gates with defensive intensity and a patient offensive approach. The deadlock finally broke with 14 minutes remaining in the first half when Avery Perez found the back of the net. The goal was set up by a crisp pass from Krystel Ixcopal Flores, whose playmaking earned her Player of the Match honors.

The Tem-Cats headed into the locker room with a 1-0 lead and all the momentum.

A Second Half Seesaw

The script flipped quickly after the break. Harker Heights surged early in the second half, netting two quick goals to erase the deficit and take a 2-1 lead.

Temple refused to go away quietly. With 21 minutes left on the clock, Alaina Flores struck a clinical shot to tie the match at 2-2, assisted by Sterling Griffith. However, the Knights’ offense proved too much in the closing stages, as they tacked on two more goals to secure the victory.

Key Stats:

Final Score: Harker Heights 4, Temple 2
Saves: Skylar Licudine (4 saves)

District Record: 3-3

Looking Ahead

While the loss stings, the Tem-Cats remain in the thick of the District 12-6A race. Goalkeeper Skylar Licudine kept Temple within striking distance throughout the night, recording four crucial saves against a high-pressure Heights attack.

The Tem-Cats won't have much time to dwell on the loss as they prepare to kick off the second round of district play this Friday.

Up Next: Temple travels to Killeen to take on Killeen Shoemaker.
Date: Friday, February 13
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Shoemaker High School