LADY LIONS LOSE A HEARTBREAKER TO BRONCOS IN FIRST ROUND
The Brookwood Broncos avenged and early season victory by the Lions, and came away with the win in the opening round of the 2012 Georgia High School State Soccer Playoffs 4-3 in kicks from the mark after the teams battled to a 0-0 tie through regulation and two overtimes on Tuesday night. The loss ends the 2012 season for the Lady Lions, whose record setting performance on the field included the most wins for the girl's program in school history and a Region VII Championship.
It was the second time this year that these two teams went scoreless and the result was the opposite on this occasion. The Lions won the first shoot-out in a regular season match.
“We win as a team and we lose as a team,” said Lions’ coach Bill Holleman who is retiring after more than 600 wins as a head coach. “All year long we have done well in PK matches and you live and die by them. This time we came up short.”
Once again this matchup was primarily a defensive struggle. The Broncos had an edge in shots and corner kicks but only seriously challenged once or twice in the match. Peachtree Ridge had two break away attempts that both missed the mark. Fans had the feeling throughout the match that any goal would win it and the Lions had the best scoring opportunities.
Lion defender Kayla Thomas stepped up repeatedly to thwart Bronco forwards deep in the Lion zone. She had an outstanding game. So did Phoebe Palmer in a defensive role. They both had opposing players frustrated and unable to beat them and get off shots on goal.
The second half saw an increase in physical play and a rash of penalties. On two occasions Brookwood had free kicks from dangerous positions just outside the eighteen but were unable to convert. They also were not able to capitalize on seven corner kicks and did not get a single shot from them.
The game marked the final contest in PRHS blue for Lion seniors Katey Lippitt, Alanna Dineen, Graham Greene, Shelby Jennings, Emily Edmonds and Katie Fitton. They can hold their heads high along with their team mates on winning the first ever Region VII AAAAA Championship in Lions’ history.
“While this was a disappointing loss,” concluded Holleman, “All year long we played with great heart and determination. We had the best season in school history. We won the first ever Region Championship for soccer in school history. No one can ever take that away from these girls. They are achievers on the pitch and they will be achievers in life.”
On Thursday, May 10th, the PRHS Soccer Boosters will be hosting the "Arena Tavern" end of year soccer banquet. The evening will recognize the accomplishments of our 2012 Teams, Coaches, and Players. Mark your calendars!
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