From staff reports

A strong senior class spearheaded Vicksburg High’s run to the playoffs, and one of its members propelled the Missy Gators into the second round on Monday.

Diari Gilliam scored two goals, including the game-winner with two minutes left in the second overtime, to give Vicksburg a 2-1 win over Center Hill in a first-round game in Olive Branch.

Junior goal keeper Kelli Brewer recorded six saves for the Missy Gators.

Vicksburg (14-8) advanced to face either West Lauderdale or Saltillo at home in the second round on Saturday. The winner of that game will earn a trip to the North State championship game next Tuesday. West Lauderdale and Saltillo will play their first-round game today.

Gilliam’s unassisted goal in the first half gave Vicksburg a 1-0 lead on Monday, but Center Hill’s Kaitlyn Haughawout tied it with 10 minutes to play in the second. Neither team scored again in regulation or the first of two 10-minute overtime periods. With another round of overtime and a possible shootout looming, Gilliam ended the drama.

The senior forward knocked in a corner kick from Tabitha Hayden with two minutes left in the second 10-minute overtime to put Vicksburg in front 2-1. The Missy Gators then held on the rest of the way.