NEWTOWN SQUARE, PA- Germantown Academy’s season came to an end yesterday when the fourth seeded Patriots lost 6-3 to No. 1 seed Episcopal Academy in the semifinal round of the Pennsylvania Independent Schools Athletic Association Field Hockey Tournament.

The Patriots finished the year 16-7 overall (4-6 Inter-Ac League).

GA’s defense was no match for the Churchwomen’s offensive line whose undefeated League record (22-0) and Inter-Ac Champs led them to this 6-3 victory.

But the Patriots were not giving up without a fight. GA hit the field strong with senior captain Allie Ernst scoring with an assist by Colleen Carrigan within the first 9 minutes of the game.

The Churchwomen answered back in the first half with two of their own goals scored by senior Margaux Paolino and then another by junior Jenna Lotsis assisted by senior midfielder Courtnie Williamson.

“We dragged back a little bit after GA made that first goal,” said EA’s senior captain Maddie Baskai. After half-time we had a game talk and everybody pulled up their energy and we were able to come out a lot stronger in the second half.”

The Churchwomen indeed came back strong in the second half with four more goals; the first led by freshman midfielder Maddie Rehak; then two more by junior fielder Corinne Zanoli with a Rehak assist.

Despite the strong second half lead by the Churchwomen, the Patriots continued on with determination as Carli McCrossen scored one more time for her team with less than 15 minutes to play.

“I was really proud of us for never giving up,” said Ernst. “Those two goals in the second half were really exciting because you can get down but everyone pulled together and stayed strong.”

But without a hitch, EA’s Paolino took advantage of some firm passing and made another goal with less than 5 minutes left on the scoreboard.

Paolino credits her scoring to her team.

“We had a lot of communication. We were calling for the ball well. Someone was able to go in and give me a wide open shot so I was lucky enough for a finish in the back of the net," said Paolino.

Goalkeepers Bridget Boyle and Caroline Kelly had two saves each for EA.

EA’s Head Coach Gina Buggy knew exactly how to capitalize on her team’s tough offensive talents.

“We kept the ball on our strong side and then as soon as we drew somebody we ditched it to the other person who found the gap and was able to convert,” said Buggy.

Patriot Head Coach Jackie Connard could not be more pleased with her team’s willpower.

“We played a great game today, everybody worked hard the whole time, and nobody game up against a great Episcopal squad. I could not be more proud of the way they have come together as a team all season,’ said Connard.

The Churchwomen advance to the PAISAA final this Saturday where they face No.3 seed Agnes Irwin for the title.