Dripping Springs Tigers ruffle feathers to earn spot in state championship

GEORGETOWN — The Dripping Springs Tigers knocked the Allen Eagles out of the state tournament during the 6A Boys State Semifinals on Friday, April 14 in Georgetown.

Photo by Albert Sanchez
York Merrill (No. 9) makes a run at the goal, but the ball was blocked by the Seven Lakes High School goalie.

The Tigers defeated the Eagles 2-1, earning the team advancement to the state championship game.

During the first half of the game, Eagle midfielder Even Pustejovsky (No. 10) scored the first goal. The favor was quickly returned when Tiger forward York Merrill (No. 9) was assisted by Mason Russell (No. 5), scoring the Tigers’ first goal of the game and Merrill’s first goal of the season.

During the second half, the game remained tied and led the teams to a double overtime and shootout.

After the double overtime, they faced off during a shootout period. The Tigers remained determined and resilient to earn their spot at the state championship game.

Forward Joey Svoboda (No. 2) scored the game-winning goal off  Eagles goalkeeper John Setterberg (No. 1).

After winning the semifinal game against the Eagles, the Tigers went on to face the Katy Seven Lake Spartans on Saturday, April 15.

Photo by Albert Sanchez
Mason Russell (No. 5) heads towards the goal with a Seven Lakes player in pursuit.

The Tigers’ season ended following a 2-1 defeat against the Spartans. Svoboda scored the Tigers’ only goal during the second half of the game.

Merrill, Svoboda and Russell were all selected to the all-state tournament team.