FAIRLEA, WV- It was a clear, but cool night for some Region 3, Section 2 soccer on Tuesday, Oct. 17.
The Lady Spartans traveled to Paul Cline Stadium in Beckley for their opening game against the Woodrow Wilson Flying Eagles, and the boys played host to the Princeton Tigers. Unfortunately, the boys team lost a hard fought, tough battle 2-1, but the ladies are moving on to Thursday night after an emotional, temper-flaring 3-1 victory over the Eagles.
In the girls contest, things got a little testy in the second half, but East was able to overcome any and all emotions for a key win. Senior Alyson McManamay scored all three goals for East and recorded the hat trick. McManamay has been very good for the Spartans this season and hopes to help carry her team into the regionals.
Emotions were also high in the boys’ game at Spartan Field. Several Princeton fans stayed highly upset with the officiating and let their displeasure be known many times after non-calls not going in their favor. Princeton went up 2-0 with 32:58 left in the game, but about 13 minutes later, Ian Gadd got the Spartans on the board with an impressive goal and made the score 2-1, Tigers.
But that would be the only score on the East side.
East had a chance to tie with about 10 minutes left, but the ball just barely grazed the top of the goal post and missed.
Princeton kicked the ball out to midfield with six seconds left in the game and time ran out on East.
The Lady Spartans (9-7-2) will play this Thursday, Oct. 19 against Oak Hill.
The boys’ team will have to wait until next year to make another state title run. After winning the championship last year, they will not be repeating this season, but congratulations on another solid season from head coach Lucas Lemine and his players. They finished 9-7-3.
“Never satisfied with winning or losing, but knowing I’ve given everything to these guys is what it’s about for me,” Lemine said.
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