Knights advance in soccer playoffs

Evans used a fast start to bypass Bainbridge in the first round of the class AAAA state soccer playoffs April 22, but the Knights' finish didn't appeal to their coach.

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All three goals in Evans' 3-0 win came in the first 20 minutes.

"I was not pleased," Knights coach Brian Killips said of his team's final 40 minutes. "We did some good things, but the second half, we got a little selfish."

Knights striker Joel Lillard scored two goals, including a gimme after Bainbridge keeper Tevin Akins fell.

Knights midfielder Chris Burton scored first on a straight-on rip at 29:36 in the first half. Lillard's two goals soon followed.

"Another fast start," Killips said, "which is what we wanted."

From there, the Knights set it on cruise. It might not have been what Killips wanted in preparation for a second-round game against No. 8 Whitewater on Tuesday, but the Knights' defense had little trouble with the Bearcats.

Evans keeper Jeff Dumond was only forced to make one save.

"Defensively, we've been playing very well," Killips said. "They didn't have a good opportunity on goal. Our backs have stepped it up."