Gaul’s hat trick helps lift Polk to win at Crest

Caelan Gaul scored three goals Wednesday to lead Polk County to a 3-1 victory over Crest in a non-conference girls soccer match in Boiling Springs.

Gaul’s first tally came in the 15th minute as she scooped up a rebound off a hard drive by Mireya Roman and placed it in the back of the net, giving Polk County (2-1-1) an early lead.

Crest (3-2) tied the match in the 33rd minute and it remained that way until the second half.

Gaul gave Polk a 2-1 lead in the 44th minute on another follow, this time a rebound off a Belen Akers shot that hit the post and bounced back into the middle of the penalty area.

Gaul then scored an insurance goal in the 53rd minute as Roman headed a cross to Gaul’s feet some 12 yards out and she drilled the pass into the net.

Polk County is scheduled to be back in action on Friday, traveling to Shelby for another non-conference match.