Southland’s 2nd Half Push Comes Up Short Against Lyle/Pacelli

A fast start from #4 seeded Lyle/Pacelli was too much for #12 seeded Southland to overcome Tuesday night at the Mayo Civic Center. The Athletics jumped out to a 12-1 lead in the first half en route to a 56-44 win in the Section 1A Quarterfinals.

Oliva Christianson was fantastic for L/P, scoring 17 first-half points and really pushing the early lead for the Athletics. Southland was able to anchor down on defense and start to make their run. The Rebels brought it back to a 16-13 game in the first half and trail just 24-20 at the break.

The Rebels really started to get things going in the second half. Right out of the gate Southland took a 26-25 lead after a Larissa Goslee bucket, but L/P answered right back and never relinquished the lead. Abigail Bollingberg had a great second half to aid the push and Southland just couldn't get enough shots to fall to overcome the deficit.

Bollingberg hit a bucket with just over four minutes left to take a 10-point lead and eventually get the 56-44 win.

Goslee led Southland with 18 points, while Kelsey Mensink added in 10. L/P was led by Christianson's 29 points while Bollingberg added 12.

L/P will take on Grand Meadow in the Section Semifinals Saturday afternoon at 4 pm.

KVGO Subway Player of the Game (Southland) - Larissa Goslee

KVGO Subway Player of the Game (Lyle-Pacelli) - Olivia Christianson

Kingsley Mercantile Game Ball (Southland) - Kelsey Mensink