Bellevue vs Stadium 11-17-17

Bellevue 0-1 Stadium
 
I love these girls. And I couldn't be more proud of our team. It's been an amazing run through the Kingco and State playoffs this year. But after five straight games of OT thrillers, clutch PK shootouts, and last second game-winners, we couldn't quite find our magic against a quick, scrappy and still undefeated Stadium team. Were we statistically dominant against Stadium?  Absolutely: 15/5 shots and 9/2 corners for the game, especially in the 2nd half when we held the Tigers to a single shot on goal. However, all that matters is the thunderbolt Stadium scored mid-way through the first half. It was a well-taken and ferocious shot by Stadium's busy lefty #11, and on the night it was enough to send them to the State final. 
 
Up until the final whistle, I firmly believed that the tying goal was only a single kick away. We poured pressure on Stadium's goal but couldn't break through their combination of organized defense and solid goalkeeping. It's undeniably frustrating, but I was proud of how our girls conducted themselves. Tears, yes. But we looked the Stadium girls in the eye, shook their hands, and wished them well in the final. Losing is part of life, and although we we've been fortunate to not experience the bitter taste of defeat in this program much the last five years, it's an important lesson. We don't have to like it, but we remember, take lessons where we can, and we conduct ourselves with grace and class even when the result isn't what we want. So best of luck to the Tigers. I genuinely wish them well.
 
We play in the consolation game vs. Kamiakin on Saturday at 10am. Not the result either team wanted. But we will respect the process and finish strong. Bus at BHS at 8am. We will rotate our squad significantly tomorrow, so everyone needs to be ready to finish our season with style and pride. 
 
Highlights
The biggest game highlight was the crazy goal-line scramble on the final corner-kick of the game. CarlieG hit an excellent bending corner towards the Stadium goal and it looked like it was destined to be yet another last second equalizer...until it wasn't. It was a great effort; My other highlight was the send-off we received from the BHS community. Huge thank you to the boosters, parents, friends, band and administrators who sent us off with lots of love and support..or at least with tubas.