A small Columbus Express soccer team went unbeaten in three games in last week’s Region II President’s Cup in Overland Park, Kan., but fell a little short of advancing to the championship round.

The U17 girls squad tied a team from Kansas 0-0 Thursday, beat Kentucky 1-0 Friday and tied Missouri 1-1 Saturday to finish 1-0-2 in pool play, good for second place. Kansas went 2-0-1 to win the pool.

“I think we were pleased for the most part,” Express coach Ann Schmelzer said. “We only had 13 on our roster for the tournament. Kansas had 19 players, and the other teams had more than we did.

“Given the lack of subs and the fact that it was played on turf, which makes it a really fast game, they had to work really hard, and I think they were successful.”

Rachel Amlung scored the goal, and Spencer Eudy posted a shutout in Friday’s win against Kentucky. Sam Watters netted the goal against Missouri on Saturday.

Schmelzer also praised the play of defenders Clare Lenart, Malissa Hofmeister, Brielyn Tidd and Gabby Sims.

“My back defensive line played really well,” Schmelzer said. “The four of them just worked extremly hard all weekend long.”

The Express had advanced to the regional event by finishing second in the state earlier this month and earning a wild-card entry.

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