Loss to Woodward puts end to Lakeside's season

The Lakeside Lady Panthers' season ended Wednesday night when they were defeated by the Woodward Academy Lady War Eagles in the first round of the AAAA state playoffs.

The final score was 3-2 (5-3) in an intense game that ended in a shootout.

Lakeside was third in the state, with a record of 12-2-2, going into the game. Woodward (9-11-2) had won four out of its five previous games - including a win over No. 2 Marist - before entering the playoffs with the sole loss coming to No. 1 McIntosh. The last time the two teams played, on Feb. 19, the score was tied 1-1.

In Wednesday's game, both teams scored in the first half, and the score remained tied throughout the second half, forcing the game into overtime to determine the winner. After another goal by Woodward in overtime, senior Susanne Rogers scored a second goal for Lakeside to tie the score once more at 2-2.

Because the score was tied again at the end of overtime play, the teams were forced into a shootout. Both teams scored three more times before Woodward's goalkeeper blocked one of Lakeside's attempts. The War Eagles then scored two more goals to win the game.

Emily Brandenburg, goalkeeper for the Lady Panthers, showed off her strong defensive skills by blocking many of Woodward's goal attempts.

The loss was disappointing, but coach Chris Newman acknowledged the team's outstanding performance this season.

"We had a good season," Newman said. "We work hard. We practice like we play."

Lakeside sophomore Ashley Wray said her team was tired as the game extended into overtime, but they still managed to work hard.

"I think we pulled it together," Wray said. "We had a great season.