Warriors Can’t Push Past Panthers

By Danielle Jackson, Sports Reporter

In county semifinals, the girls were more than ready to face the Central York Panthers. The girls survived round one of counties, but now it was time for them to face their toughest challenge.

Jaden Walker using under the basket defense. Photo By; York Dispatch
Jaden Walker uses “under the basket defense.” Photo By The York Dispatch

The Central York Panthers are the only team this season that have given the girls a loss. Fresh off a win from the first round, the girls looked to push the tempo and try to get a win over the Panthers. Before the game, everyone was focused on getting the win for the first time against this team. The girls knew that this game was going to be their toughest battle, but that didn’t stop them from playing hard basketball.

Anna Mahan trying to grab the ball. Photo By; York Dispatch
Anna Mahan tries to grab the ball. Photo By The York Dispatch

Going into the game, the girls followed their motto, “It’s hard to beat a team three times.” The girls defense made the Panthers score their fewest first-quarter points this season,  only 9 points. Both teams played hard to the bone defense; it was hard for both teams to score. When the girls started to slip, the Panthers took advantage of their mistakes and pushed a 9 point lead in the third quarter.  

Going into the fourth quarter,  it was time to push the pace. Going on a great run, the Warriors came within 4 points with only about 3 minutes left in the game. The girls knew 3 minutes was more than enough time to get ahead, but the Warrior defense fell apart and allowed the Panthers to get back to their 9 point lead.

Ashley Stone fighting for the ball. Photo By; York Dispatch
Ashley Stone fights for the ball. Photo By The York Dispatch

The Warriors played their hearts out, but it wasn’t enough to get past the Panthers. The Panthers went on to win the game 50-41 and advanced to the county championship.