TAMPA - Berkeley Prep entered the Class 2A, District 8 tournament undefeated in district play. And though it took time, the Buccaneers exited the same way, using a Sam Sergey goal off a corner kick from Chelsea Hatcher 21/2 minutes into overtime to defeat Shorecrest Prep 2-1 in the district championship.
Berkeley Prep (12-10-1) earned a home match when regionals begin Feb. 5. Shorecrest Prep (11-5-1) will open regional play on the road.
Berkeley Prep easily handled Shorecrest 3-0 in regular-season play this month. Things were tougher this time.
The Buccaneers led 1-0 at the half thanks to a Nikki Lanza goal midway through the half. Lanza scored on a free kick after she was tripped by a defender in the box.
But the Bucs struggled in the second half as the Chargers' numerous scoring chances finally paid off. With 13:47 remaining, Shorecrest evened the score when Chrissy Mastry gathered the ball in a crowd and directed a shot in from 10 yards.
