Varsity soccer girls fall to crosstown rival in third round of playoffs

The Lady Raider Varsity soccer team fell short for their goal of the seasonal championship against Wylie High School April 4. They had reached the third round in playoffs, but fell short with a score of 1-0.

“I know that the result was not what everyone wanted to see, but it was an awesome opportunity and even greater experience for the girls who were given the privilege to be a part of the team,” Girls Soccer Coach Kody Christensen said.

The game took place in the middle of the week, just after state testing. Many fans still managed to come out to support the Lady Raiders strive to reach the fourth round of the playoffs.

Chandler Parrish plays soccer for the mens’ team. He battled the cold weather from the visitor’s side with the rest of Raider Nation to cheer on the girls.

“I am proud of them,” Parrish said. “They don’t need to forget their season highlights; they beat two teams 13-0.”

To prepare for this game the girls learned new drills.

“I know that the result was not what everyone wanted to see, but it was an awesome opportunity and even greater experience that our girls had the privilege to be a part of as a team,” Coach Christensen said.

As they warmed up, seniors went in not knowing if this would be their final opportunity to play as a Lady Raider.

“I was disappointed for the loss, but more disappointed about losing the seniors,” sophomore Leasa Points said.

The Lady Pirates’ Addie Ault made the first and only goal with just over seven minutes left on the clock.

“I was in disbelief when Wylie scored that first goal,” Points said. “It was a great season, lots of hard work was put into it but I wouldn’t change anything,” Points said.

Coach Christensen said the year was very successful and brought many great moments. The memories are going to be something that they will hold onto for the rest of their lives

“I think that we have something special growing among the students here at East and I want to be a part of this movement,” Christensen said.

Isaac Pinilla contributed to this story.