LODI, CA (MPG) - The Liberty Ranch Hawks JV girls flag football team traveled to Lodi on Tuesday for a non-league matchup against the Lodi Flames, as the program continues to seek competitive games while awaiting league formation.

Despite falling 6-0 to the Division II Lodi squad, the Hawks demonstrated significant improvement and tenacity throughout the contest. Coach Andy Peterson praised his team’s effort against higher-level competition.

“The girls fought very well against a Division II team,” said Peterson. “Holding them to just one score shows how much our defense has developed.”

The Hawks’ defense was the story of the game, limiting Lodi to a single scoring drive in the opening possession. After surrendering an early touchdown, the Liberty Ranch defense clamped down and shut out the Flames for the remainder of the contest.

“Our defense was great,” noted Peterson. “After that first drive, we made the adjustments and didn’t let them find the end zone again.”

Parents and spectators were impressed with the competitive nature of the game, with one parent commenting that “it was a really good game” despite the final score.

The defensive performance against a Division II opponent provides a strong foundation for the Hawks to build upon as they continue their season. Coach Peterson and his staff will look to translate this defensive success into more balanced offensive production in upcoming games.