Girls fall in shootout

Following a successful regular season campaign in which the Oberlin girls soccer team captured the PAC Stripes Division title, the Lady Phoenix hosted the Brookside Cardinals last week in the opening round of sectional play.

Junior Abby Weiss got the Oberlin attack rolling with a goal in the 22nd minute of the first half. Despite numerous opportunities to add to the lead, the Phoenix weren't able to convert their good chances. Shots both high and wide would keep the score unchanged before intermission, as Oberlin led at the break, 1-0.

While Oberlin would again have a few chances in the second half, it was Brookside who turned the tables on the Phoenix, scoring a goal with just five minutes remaining to knot the score at 1-all.

Two scoreless overtimes followed, with neither team able to find the back of the net. The game came down to a penalty kick shootout. And in the shootout, it was the Cardinals who found the corners of the net while the Phoenix kickers found their shots going high and/or wide. In the end, Brookside prevailed 2-1.

Coach Lahetta was disappointed in the game's result, but certainly was upbeat about the season.

"While today wasn't our day, I'm very proud of the season these girls turned in. It's a new standard and the next level of play to which these seniors have taken us. One to which up-and-coming Oberlin soccer players can aspire. I can't say enough about what a great year these seniors have had and I look forward to putting our PAC Stripes Division trophy into the case - our first, and a real tribute to these girls. All eight seniors have contributed to this team, and all will be missed - particularly the leadership of co-captains Alyssa Garcia, Ann Marie Shrewsbury and sweeper Sarah Andrews and goalie Adrianna Young," she said.

Lahetta noted the Fall Sports Celebration Night is slated for Nov. 12 - a time to formally present the conference's division championship to the school. All are welcome to attend.