WINONA &045;&160;A 12-5-0 overall mark along with a 10-3-0 conference record led to a third place finish in the Big Nine behind Owatonna and Rochester Century, and made for a record setting season for the Albert Lea girls’ soccer team.

It was especially sweet to outscore opponents 58-16 and notch nine shutouts.

Unfortunately, the Winona Winhawks tried to dampen the party by netting two goals in the second half of their rematch with the Tigers to win, 2-0.

In spite of a two-to-one advantage in possession during the first half and an eight to three shot advantage, the Tigers did not find the back of the net.

In the second half, the Winhawks stepped up the attack.

The first Winona goal came at the 57th minute on a scramble in front of the net. The second came at the 75th minute when keeper Kendra Olchefske blocked a Winona shot but couldn’t reach the rebound.

Time of possession in the second half was equal at 20 minutes, but Winona enjoyed an 11 to five shot advantage.

&8221;I was pleased more with the effort than the outcome,&8220; said Albert Lea head coach Rick Barnhill.

&8221;When you look at the season’s goal differentials, the team really overachieved, especially when you consider the high level of competition in the conference.

This team was tested by a good team, played well and re-established the indirect game, something we did not use as much against recent opponents.

&8221;If we had to lose a late season game, this was the one to drop.

From here out, everything is single elimination.

We have a tough contest with Loyola Thursday at home, so we have to put the regular season away and concentrate on the next game.

There will be plenty of time for

celebration, and more to celebrate, after sections.&8220;

The junior varsity closed out its season with a scoreless tie against the Winhawks.