Unbeaten Lakewood adds PCAC crown

By MEYLA HOOKER
Published April 21, 2005

PALM HARBOR - Lakewood continued its dream season with an 18-13 win over Palm Harbor University in the PCAC flag football title game Wednesday.

The Spartans (9-0) will take on Dixie Hollins in the District 8 tournament April 30 at Lakewood.

"PHU is a very, very good team," Lakewood coach Necole Tunsil said. "They had offensive threats on the pass as well as the run. They are very athletic and competitive."

The same can be said for the Spartans, who feature one of the most potent offensive attacks in the county.

Led by quarterback Sade Brown, running back Innekia Reedy and receiver Kquanise Byrd, the Spartans have rarely been challenged this season.

Lakewood safety Joni Gotwald was the difference maker in this one. Gotwald intercepted a PHU pass in the end zone late in the third quarter. On the ensuing drive, Brown found Byrd open downfield for a 40-yard completion. Byrd made a one-handed grab at the 3-yard line. Reedy used her elusive moves to sneak into the end zone on the following play.

"We're not going into the district tournament overlooking anyone," Tunsil said. "We understand it is very difficult to beat teams two or three times in a row. Teams turn on the afterburner during district time. Lights come on and crazy things happen."

Meyla Hooker can be reached at 727 445-4224 or e-mail mhooker@sptimes.com

[Last modified April 21, 2005, 01:06:12]