The River Hill Hawks booked their tickets to the 2A South regional final match with a 6-0 victory over the Patuxent Panthers Friday night in Clarksville, with the Hawks' All-State midfielder Jake Pace accounting for two goals.

   "We're talking about the team that was state champion last year," said Patuxent coach Greg McMinn of the Hawks.  "They were big and physical, played the ball quickly, and had a good team concept  Plus, everything they shot was on frame."

   Pace began the River Hill scoring party less than 3 minutes into the match, striking a laser shot from distance.  The Hawks kept Patuxent goalkeeper Thomas Philibin busy, forcing 16 saves.  Prior to Friday's goalfest, Philibin and the Patuxent defense had conceded only 7 goals all season.

   Patuxent seemed to come to life after the opening goal, but seldom threatened River Hill's goal.  Possession of the ball was short-lived for the Panthers, mostly in the middle third of the field.  The Panthers were out-shot 19-4 on the night.

   "Regardless of the score tonight, though, I'm proud of our boys," said Coach McMinn.  "We've had a lot of ups and downs this season, but they were there for each other the whole time, and tonight was no exception."

   River Hill will go to Marriots Ridge for a rematch against the Howard County champions on Tuesday.  Marriots Ridge dominated their previous match, 3-1.

   Patuxent ended a greatly improved season with a 10-6-1 record, 7-4-1 in SMAC.