Paloma girls' first lacrosse playoff season ends in loss

Abigail Gomez moves in close to score a goal for Paloma Valley Monday. (Photo by Rick Rowell)

By Paige Mendez, Correspondent

The Paloma Valley girls lacrosse team finished up its season with a 16-3 loss to Northwood in a CIF Division 3 wild card playoff game Monday afternoon.

After a slow first half where they were outscored 14-0, the Wildcats had their work cut out for them going into halftime. They turned things around in the second half and outscored the Timberwolves 3-2, but it wasn't enough in the end, even with Peyton Peterson making 18 saves in the game.

"I know we could have done better, but ultimately I'm incredibly proud of this team," said head coach Julie Blied. "Most importantly, they never stopped fighting and competing."

Abigail Gomez, Giana Bailey and Alyssa Kelley showed that perseverance with a goal each for the Wildcats in that second half. Bailey and Kelley also joined Giselle Rodriguez with an assist apiece.

Paloma Valley girls lacrosse hit a new stride this season, despite the way things ended. Blied said she's proud of how the team created a reputation for themselves moving forward.

"Prior to this season, they had won one single game in four years. This year they won seven and made it to CIF," said Blied. "They set a new standard for girls lacrosse at Paloma."

Gianna Bailey also scored a goal for Paloma Valley in the second half. (Photo by Rick Rowell)

 A Northwood opponent can't stop Rachel Ngo from moving the ball ahead. (Photo by Rick Rowell)