Vikings return to North State for the third year in a row

VICKSBURG, Miss.(VDN) — Warren Central High School is headed to the North State championship for the third straight season after a dramatic 3-2 win over Olive Branch on Friday night.

The contest pushed through overtime and was ultimately decided in a penalty kick shootout.

The Vikings controlled the early action. Jacob Porter scored twice to give WC a 2-0 lead at halftime.

Olive Branch rallied late in the second half, scoring twice to tie the match at 2-2 and force overtime. Both teams survived two 10-minute overtime periods along with two five-minute sudden-death sessions, sending the match to penalty kicks.

Nick Lee opened the shootout with a goal for Warren Central, and Olive Branch answered. Porter followed with another successful attempt before goalkeeper Mohamed Shaibi delivered a crucial save on the Conquistadors’ next try. Luke Bond and Jonah Artman each converted to secure the victory.

Warren Central will face Center Hill next week in the North State championship.