–Photo by David Borer

The fourth-ranked (Class 2A) Webster City boys soccer team is on the cusp of a return to the state tournament.

The Lynx handled North Central Conference rival Hampton-Dumont/CAL here Monday night, 4-0, in a 2A, Substate 2 semifinal.

With the win, Webster City (14-1 overall) advances to face another NCC foe, Clear Lake, back here on Wednesday for a trip to state. The Lions (10-7) upset Benton, 3-1, in the semis.

“The boys are excited for another chance to get to the state tournament,” WCHS head coach Craig Signorin said. “They know the job isn’t done yet; we have 80 minutes to go.”

Eduardo Perez scored two goals with Eddy Fuentes and David Villelas both finding the back of the net once. Fuentes added two assists and Conner Peck had another assist.

Overall, Webster City tallied 18 shots including 10 on goal. Edwin Nolasco Ramos had a clean sheet, recording two saves.

Fuentes got the scoring started in the 24th minute on a helper from Peck with Perez scoring his first goal just three minutes later.

“I thought the boys played outstanding, especially in the heat,” Signorin said. “We haven’t seen that yet this year. Our defense was incredibly solid at the back.

“I was so proud of how they all played.”

During the regular season, the Lynx claimed both meetings vs. Clear Lake, winning 5-0 and 5-1. Overall, they are 17-7 vs. the Lions since 2011 and have won each of the last five encounters.