The Lakeland field hockey team experienced defeat for the first time in 2012 with a 6-0 loss to First Colonial at the U.S. Field Hockey National Training Center in Virginia Beach on Friday evening.

Lakeland (14-1, 8-0) had only allowed three goals total this season up until Friday. The Lady Cavaliers were state champions in 2010, but the Lady Patriots claimed the crown last year and similarly carried an undefeated 2012 record into this match-up.

“Our trouble spots were exposed today, things that I have been talking to them about for weeks,” Lady Cavaliers’ head coach Tara Worley stated.

She explained that First Colonial played well, taking advantage of every opportunity while Lakeland had difficulty maintaining possession due to sub-par passing and receiving.

She felt First Colonial was definitely the better team on the day but was hopeful that the game could serve as a crucial learning experience for her team.

“This loss could be great for us going into the playoffs,” she stated. “The girls have now seen what we have to strive for.”

The Lady Cavaliers play their final game of the regular season against Hickory tonight at the U.S. Field Hockey National Training Center.