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GM soccer falls to Shady Side in double OT

By: Andy Koestel
Sports Editor

The General McLane varsity boys soccer team played hard from the first game of the season to the last. They went to the PIAA playoffs, which GM soccer hasn't done before. This season was one to remember for all those involved.

Before the District ten playoffs began, GM fell short of the Harborcreek Huskies in a one game playoff. As a result, GM entered D-10 play as the ECL number two seed. Harborcreek was number one.

The Lancers faced Titusville in the quarterfinal of the D-10 playoffs. McLane grabbed a 10-0 victory against Titusville and proceeded to the semifinals where they met with Slippery Rock. The Lancers won that game as well, and they were set to meet with Harborcreek for the D-10, AA championship game at Veteran's stadium. McLane entered the game against Harborcreek with a 1-2 record against them this year.

According to Sophomore Marc Farrell, it was a windy night, and McLane wanted to play the first half in a defensive mode. According to the Erie Daily Times, coach Byron Smith said if the Lancers could keep it close through the first half with the wind in their faces, then he liked McLane's chances. McLane did just this and they entered halftime tied at zero. The Lancers came out for the second half with one big advantage: they had the wind at their backs. The guys scored one time, and that was enough. McLane won the game, and the D-10 title for AA boys competition.

After the big victory over Harborcreek, the Lancers entered the PIAA playoffs, as the D-10 number one seed. Harborcreek, despite the loss to McLane, also entered the PIAA competition, but as D-10 at large. GM took on Shady Side Academy for the first round, and it was a hard fought battle to the end. Both teams knew that the loser of this game would go home. According to the Erie Daily Times, in the first half, both teams scored twice, and each team scored once in the second half. Both teams fought into the night, as this game was decided in double overtime. It was in the second extra period when Shady Side scored and won the game. The magical season came to an end for the Lancers. Sophomore Brandon Langill said, "I'm disappointed that the season is over, we fought hard to get here though, so I'm proud about that." The McLane goals were scored by senior Chris Urban who had one, and senior Chris Jackson who tickled the twines twice. The Shady Side goals were scored by Jon Fleishman who had two, and both Ben Scott and Tom Sochacki netted one.