FROM STAFF REPORTS

The Chelsea High School boys’ soccer team clinched its place in the Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 5A playoffs by defeating Class 5A, Section 3 rival Talladega 6-0 in a section match April 20.

The Hornets scored early when Ashley Page beat several Talladega defenders and fought his way to a scrappy unassisted goal.

Minutes later, Austin Rikard flicked a header onto the feet of Page, who took a hard shot at goal that was batted down by Talladega’s keeper. However, Page followed up and got an easy put-back goal.

About midway through the half, a Talladega defender was ejected for unsporting behavior, leaving the Tigers down a man, and Chelsea was able to turn up the pressure even more.

Page finished the game with three goals. Dakota Dresbach had a goal and two assists, while Will Bevill and Travis Mitchell added a goal each.

The Hornets will play at Sylacuaga Thursday night for the Class 5A, Section 3 championship.