Lakeland defeated Brewster in flag football championship

Lakeland High School defeated Brewster High School 6-0 in the Section 1 flag football championship on Wednesday night at Mahopac High School.

The game was close throughout, but Lakeland was able to score the game's only touchdown in the second quarter. Nicole Ljuljic threw a 32-yard pass to Olivia Del Ponte, who ran into the end zone untouched.

Lakeland's defense was dominant, holding Brewster to just 100 yards of total offense. The Hornets also forced two turnovers, including an interception by Del Ponte.

The win gives Lakeland its first Section 1 flag football championship. The Hornets finished the season with a perfect 15-0 record.

"This is a great feeling," said Lakeland coach Mike O'Donnell. "We worked hard all season, and it's finally paid off."

Ljuljic was named the game's Most Valuable Player. She threw for 126 yards and one touchdown. Del Ponte caught four passes for 70 yards and one touchdown.

"I'm so proud of this team," said Ljuljic. "We never gave up, and we always believed in ourselves."

Brewster finishes the season with a record of 13-2-2. The Bears were led by quarterback Madison Washington, who threw for 115 yards.

"We're disappointed, but we're proud of the way we played," said Brewster coach John DeLorenzo. "Lakeland is a great team, and they deserved to win."

Lakeland will now advance to the state championship game, which will be played on June 10 at Middletown High School. The Hornets will face the winner of the Section 9 championship game.