GLENVIEW, Ill- The Lake Forest field hockey team has been one of the most dominant programs in the state since the turn of the century. Therefore, it was no surprise that the Scouts were playing for the chance to advance to yet another state title game. On Thursday evening, the girls faced the Glenbard West Hilltoppers at Glenbrook South High School in the semi final game of the IHSFHA playoffs. The Scouts lost just two games in the regular season, with one of them coming at the hands of the GBW. With a healthy Catherine Nicholson on their side this time, the Scouts were looking to reach the title game to defend their 2016 title.

The Scouts looked to advance and strike revenge on the Hilltoppers, but they would have to do so against a stingy and aggressive team. At a breezy and cool Titan Field in Glenview, the game got underway at a brisk pace. Both teams threatened early, but it wasn’t until 12 minutes into the game when senior and Iowa commit Cat Nicholson was able to work her magic. Nicholson battled injury midway through the season, but was back in full form for the playoffs and Thursday night’s semifinal. With 18 minutes left in the half, the Scouts got the Glenbard West goalkeeper out of position and Nicholson capitalized to put the Scouts up 1-0. 18 uneventful minutes later, the first half came to a close, and the Scouts maintained their lead needing just 30 more minutes of play to get back to the state championship.

The second half got underway and the Scouts showed no signs of letting up. The Scouts defense, led by goalkeeper Barbara Canty, kept the Glenbard West scoring opportunities at bay. Early into the second half, junior Eleanor Van Antwerp, who has been having a very productive season, found the goal yet again to put the Scouts up 2-0. That insurance goal put the game out of reach as the Scouts pitched yet another shutout, holding on to win 2-0.

With the win, the Scouts will play Saturday at 1pm for the state championship at Glenbrook South High School. Be sure to stay tuned to The Forest Scout for updates and come out to support your Scouts in the state title game on Saturday.