There have been plenty of firsts in Steinbrenner's inaugural girls soccer season.
First goal, first win. First district title. First regional appearance and first regional victory.
But a first that hadn't occurred until Tuesday for the Warriors was a loss.
In the Class 4A-Region 3 semifinals, Steinbrenner suffered its first defeat of the season, dropping a 2-1 decision to Bradenton Lakewood Ranch.
Against the Mustangs (18-0-2), Steinbrenner encountered speed it hadn't seen this season. As a first-year program, the Warriors didn't play a particularly strong regular-season schedule.
"We learned as the game went on," Steinbrenner coach Teresa Patterson said. "You have to give Lakewood Ranch credit.
"They definitely were the fastest team we've played all year. Their speed definitely made us adjust."
The Mustangs jumped to a 2-0 lead on goals by Kaitlyn Wolfe (16th minute) and Sarah Miller (30th), but the Warriors (18-1-2) cut their deficit to 2-1 on a goal by Marley Opila with the assist going to Kaitlyn Huntzinger.
"They got us on two counter attacks," Patterson said. "We have six freshmen and they don't learn on the fly as quickly. (Miller) is one of the fastest players in the state of Florida."
Added Patterson: "I'm real proud of this group."
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