Having lost to Lehman Catholic 2-0 in a regular-season, West Liberty-Salem’s girls soccer team had an opportunity to exact some revenge with a rematch against the Cavaliers in a sectional final Tuesday night.
But the ninth-seeded Tigers were unable to turn the tables as third-seeded Lehman jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first half and held on for the two-goal victory in a Division III battle at Bellefontaine’s AcuSport Stadium.
“We are a young team and I was a little concerned how we would react after we got down 2-0,” said WL-Salem head coach Andy Cotrell. “I thought we played scared for a little bit, but I was proud of the girls for the way they came out in the second half. We played with more energy and we attacked the way we wanted to.”
The Cavaliers took a 1-0 lead at the 21:50 mark of the first half when Lindsey Magoteaux knocked in a goal off an assist by Eva Dexter.
Lehman added to its lead with 8:48 left until halftime when Dexter slipped the ball into the goal for a 2-0 advantage.
The Tigers struggled to get any type of scoring opportunities in the first half. They were able to get some more shots off in the second half, but could not get anything past Lehman keeper Heidi Toner.
“We had a good game plan and we stuck to it pretty well,” said Cotrell. “It’s just tough when you are a young team and fall behind early like we did.”
The Tigers end their season with a record of 9-6-3.
Tuesday’s loss was the last game in a Tigers’ uniform for six seniors.
“It’s always tough to say goodbye to your seniors,” said Cotrell. “I am just grateful we were able to have a season. The girls did a great job following the mandates they were asked to follow. I am very proud of them.”
Lehman advances to face Cincinnati Country Day in Saturday’s district championship game.