Women’s soccer comes up one game short of championship

The North Lake Blazers soccer team came up short in the Metro Athletic Conference Playoffs, losing in the semifinals to Eastfield, 3-2.

The Blazers, who had eight freshmen on the field for the game, felt the presence of inexperience in their defeat. They had started the contest by drawing first blood and led 1-0 at the outset of the game. North Lake later had a 2-1 lead. Eastfield, however, roared back and scored two goals, leading to the final score of 3-2.

The North Lake soccer team, under the direction of Head Coach Jim Benedek, experienced new heights this season. Its record of eight wins, five losses and two draws is the best record that North Lake has compiled in the history of its regular season play. The Blazers also advanced to the MAC Playoffs for the first time in school history. North Lake finished third in the Metro Athletic Conference.

Several North Lake soccer team players were given MAC honors. Forward Tina Dreier was named to the MAC Conference first team. Forward Silvia Resendizg and defender Monica Bacon were both given honorable mentions.

The Blazers scored 40 goals during the 15-game season, giving them an average of 2.66 goals per game. North Lake also allowed 26 goals during the same stretch. The Blazers gave up an average of 1.73 goals per game. Twelve players are returning.