Gainey goes out in style

EAST MANATEE — As time wound down Tuesday night, Nikki Gainey jogged off the field to wild applause from Braden River’s girls soccer team.

It was senior night, and Gainey, a Pirates forward, played her last regular-season home game.

The senior went out in grand fashion.

Gainey scored two goals, and netted her 100th-career goal, as Braden River thrashed Sebring 4-0 in Class 4A-District 10 action.

“I didn’t expect to get it (Tuesday),” said Gainey, the Pirates’ all-time leading goal scorer. “I think we just gave it our best, and played hard for the seniors. I think we were just ready to play.”

The Pirates proved that early.

In the 20th minute, Gainey’s penalty kick zoomed around a wall of Sebring defenders, and into the upper right corner of the net.

“I only practice that kick before games,” she said. more