NORTHFIELD &045; Things couldn&8217;t have started better for the Albert Lea boys&8217; soccer team in its 2A section match against top-seeded Northfield, but the positive momentum just didn&8217;t last long enough.

Senior Zack McGinnis scored five minutes into the game &045; his 13th goal of the season &045; heading the ball in the goal off an assist from senior Josh Svendsen, but Northfield answered 30 seconds later and went on to win 4-2.

The Tigers had to battle snow flakes and a stiff wind in the first half but went into the break down just 2-1.

Northfield&8217;s second goal was a controversial one as a blatant hand ball was not called allowing the player to settle it at his feet and rocket the ball into the goal from 30 yards out.

&8220;It was one of those nights where once we seemed to get just a little momentum something would go against us,&8221; Albert Lea head coach Elia Romano said. &8220;But the kids fought hard all night and never gave up.&8221;

A penalty kick gave Northwood its third goal as the wind died in the second half when it would have favored the Tigers.

The Tigers second goal came on a penalty kick from senior Svendsen late in the game.

The loss signaled the end of a career for 16 Albert Lea seniors.

&8220;They pushed forward all season long and they fought in that last 10 to 15 minutes to get that next goal,&8221; Romano said.