FORNEY, Texas — Forney’s pursuit of its first state soccer championship ended in a closely contested shootout defeat to Humble Kingwood on Saturday at Birkelbach Field. After holding a 1-0 lead for much of the match, Forney’s hopes were dashed when Kingwood’s Tyler Weaver scored a late equalizer and later converted the decisive penalty kick in a 4-2 shootout victory, securing Kingwood’s third state title in Class 6A Division II.

Forney opened the scoring early in the game, with senior Addison Smith netting a deflected shot off the far post just seven minutes in, assisted by junior Kalani Brundage. The Bulldogs controlled much of the first half, limiting Kingwood to only two shots while taking six themselves. Kingwood’s best chance during the opening 40 minutes was a shot by Concepcion Maya, saved by Forney junior goalkeeper Cinnamon Hurst, who proved pivotal throughout the match.

The second half saw a shift in momentum as Kingwood increased its offensive pressure, generating six shots and chipping away at Forney’s defense. Forney head coach Trisha Williamson described the team’s play as “a little chaotic” during this period, noting that Kingwood’s adjustments disrupted Forney’s rhythm. Ultimately, with less than a minute remaining, Weaver capitalized on a rebound after Hurst parried an initial shot, leveling the score at 1-1. This was only the second goal allowed by Forney’s defense all postseason.

The match extended into extra time, where Forney managed only one shot on goal, taken by sophomore Addison Staats. Hurst continued to demonstrate strong composure and poise, making multiple key saves, including a critical stop late in the second period of overtime.

The championship was ultimately decided by a penalty shootout. Kingwood’s goalkeeper Hazel Rutherford made a pivotal one-handed save that helped secure her team’s advantage. Weaver, who scored the equalizer and the winning penalty, was named the match’s most valuable player.

Forney’s path to the state final included victories over two former state champions, Wylie East and Southlake Carroll, underscoring a breakthrough season for the program. Williamson praised her team’s confidence, offensive execution, and defensive resolve throughout the campaign, acknowledging the disappointment of falling just short but expressing pride in the players' overall performance.