Stories

Western girls lacrosse powers past Hidden Valley

Photo by Bart Isley

Western Albemarle’s Hannah Plantz coordinates the Warriors’ offense on the field, moving the pieces around and getting Western in the right place.

 

“She’s been doing a great job for us on attack, she’s our senior back there that keeps everything in motion,” said Western coach Tara Hohenshelt. “She’s our quarterback and she was due. She was due for that kind of night.”

 

Plantz exploded for four goals and two assists Hidden Valley as the Warriors rolled 14-2 in the Region 4A South semifinals, sewing up a berth in region title game and the Group 4A state semifinals.

 

By halftime, Western was up 8-1 on the Titans, a first-year program that struggled to create chances offensively against Western Albemarle’s seasoned, experienced defense. In several cases, forced turnovers led to fastbreaks on the other end and easy goals for the Warriors.

 

To earn a spot in the state final four, to have the right to defend our regional title is just such a blessing,” Hohenshelt said. “We’re so excited to be here.”

 

Joie Funk and Kate Snyder each scored twice and dished out an assist for the Warriors while Audrey Russell scored once and had an assist and Hanna Schuler scored once and had two assists. Kira Repich, Mady Starsia, Bella Moriconi and Izzy Shaffrey all each scored a goal. Anna Kreienbaum had an assist.

 

Hidden Valley got a pair of goals from McKay Coolbaugh. Despite the loss, the Titans looked strong for a first year program, transitioning the ball well and creating some solid opportunities. With Western controlling all but two draws though, it wasn’t enough to overcome the Warriors.

 

“I’m so excited for (Hidden Valley)’s program,” Hohenshelt said. “I’m excited to see them again in the upcoming years, I think they’re going to be great competition in this area.”

 

Western will square off with Salem Thursday at 6 p.m. in the Region 4A South final.

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