by Matt Wright
In just 3 years, the Lakeland Lady Lions have quickly become a well-established side in the local soccer scene. After defeating local power Collierville last week 3-0, the Lions took on the other local power, Houston, at the Lakeland Prep Campus on September 9, 2020. The Lions lost in a very competitive and close match 2-1.
Number 13, Julia Wagner, scored Lakeland Prep’s goal with a nice move down the left side in the first half of play. On defense, Sophia Paule, Center Defender, played strong defense and earned praise from her coaches. After giving up a goal to Houston late in the 2nd half, the Lions had a few opportunities to score in the last 3 minutes and tie the match but they simply could not convert against the Mustang defense.
Despite the loss Coach Megan Criner, who’s in her 3rd year coaching the ladies, was pleased with the effort. Coach Criner said, “Despite a tough loss this afternoon, the LPS girls’ soccer team is looking forward to regrouping and coming out stronger next week.”
Coach Criner also emphasized how experienced the girls are, with many playing club soccer throughout the year. “We have a strong group of girls with an average of 6.5 years of experience. I am so proud of how they worked together and I am confident we will see positive growth as the season progresses.” This type of experience should bode well for the Lady Lions soccer program as the school moves into their high school matches starting in 2022. Once Lakeland Prep receives official designation from the TSSAA there should be a good opportunity for advancement into the state tournament when Lakeland starts playing schools with similar enrollment numbers. You can read more about Lakeland Prep’s classification here.
Lakeland Prep continues it’s season with a rematch next week againt Collierville.
