River Lakes girls end season with playoff loss

This article submitted by Courtney Karsch on 2/10/99.

It may be sad, but the River Lakes Stars girls hockey team has completed their season. They lost in the first round of playoffs against Moorhead on Tuesday, Feb. 2.

The Stars goalie, Shari Vogt, did a wonderful job in net saving 36 out of the 38 shots.

The first period began sort of slow for the Stars. It actually took them a while to play as a team and pass well. With only one minute into the period, Moorhead scored their first goal. The Stars knew now that they had to pick up the pace and regroup. The second goal of the period was scored by Courtney Karsch with a couple minutes remaining. Karschâs goal was assisted by Mary Beth Johannes and Melissa Jungels.

As the Stars discussed what they had to do, the tension filled the air. All coaches and players realized that in order to play the game and do well, they had to play as a team and play hard as well. Fortunately for both teams, there was no scoring in the second period, which meant that the Stars had to think about the game and figure out what they wanted.

Before the last period the Stars realized they were about to face a do-or-die situation. If they would win, they would advance on to the next playoff game, but if they would lose, they would be done for the season.

In their hearts, they wanted it so bad they could taste it. I guess that is just not what was intended when Moorhead scored the winning goal with only a couple minutes remaining. The buzzer was a heartbreaking sound to the Stars, but an exciting moment of joy for Moorhead.

The Stars had an excellent season and no one can argue with a 20-4 record. The Stars can really look back at all the victories and all the great memories as well.

The Stars are losing three seniors and are hoping to take their season even farther next year!

Being the only two hockey players from Paynesville, Jenny Habben and Courtney Karsch would like to thank everyone who took the time to care and come and watch a girls hockey game! Hope to see you all next year!

Moorhead: 1 0 1 - 2
River Lakes: 1 0 0 - 1

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