A proficient first half propelled the Lakeside Lions to a victory in the 3A state championship game against the Bellevue Wolverines boys soccer team.

Lakeside, who scored two goals (18th minute, 30th minute) in the first half of play, earned a 2-0 win against Bellevue on May 25 at Sparks Stadium in Puyallup. It was the first time during the 2019 season the Wolverines had experienced a loss on the soccer field. Wolverines’ head coach Steve Zakuani credited his squad for their determination following the loss.

“It was a historic run. Lakeside is good. Credit to them. They had the better first half and scored two (goals). We had the better second half but we didn’t score. My guys showed their heart,” Zakuani said. “When the dust settles and we look back on what we did this season, it was an unbelievable year. Our first loss came in the 20th game.”

The Wolverines, who won just five games during the 2018 season, thrived under the tutelage of Zakuani’s coaching style. Bellevue’s ball control style of play resulted in an epic 2019 season, which culminated in a berth in the state championship game.

“This was one (season) to not forget. The past two years we were probably one of the worst teams in KingCo (Conference). To come out and show everyone what we are made of, that is what it is all about,” Bellevue junior forward Jed Michael said.