Lehighton fell just a little short on Thursday in its District 11 quarterfinal match-up with Salisbury as the Falcons were able to edge the Indians 3-2.

Still, it was a strong season for the Tribe, which finished 10-3 and ranked No. 4 in the final District 11 power ratings.

After a losing record in 2021, Lehighton has now put together back-to-back impressive seasons, going a combined 21-7 over the past two years.

“I really thought coming in, we could have another strong season,” said Lehighton head coach Cody Schuler. “I knew we were talented at our No. 1 and No. 2 singles positions, and then we had some experience returning at other spots as well to create that young talent and veteran mix.

“I’m just really proud of this team for their effort and dedication during the season. To get to districts two seasons in a row is a really good accomplishment, and something we can continue to build off.”

The Indians No. 1 and No. 2 singles players in brothers Bayto Cokrilja and Bekim Cokrilja continued their strong play on the season, as they came through with two victories against the Falcons. Both recently competed in the district singles tournament, and played together in the district doubles tournament.

Bayto, a sophomore, and Bekim, just a freshman, were competitive in the doubles bracket a week ago, and noted how special it was for them to compete together. The two brothers obviously would’ve liked to advance in team play on Thursday, but enjoyed their time playing together this season.

“Being on the same team this season, it was something we were both looking forward to,” said Bekim Cokrilja. “We didn’t have much experience playing doubles together, but I thought we played really well in the district tournament.”

Bayto echoed his brothers sentiments, and is excited for another opportunity next season to improve on their performance.

“I think next season, we can do even better. I think we can do great. That was our first time in districts, competing together, so I think we can even be stronger next season.”

Unfortunately for the Indians, Salisbury was able to win a very competitive No. 3 singles match, with Jacob Knerr getting the win for the Falcons in three sets. Salisbury was then able to sweep the doubles action in close matches, with Blaine Berger and Ahmed Suleiman, and Mohamed Suleiman and Jackson Kramp grabbing wins for Salisbury.

“It was honestly just a really great match today,” said Schuler. “It was a very even match, I thought, and it really could have gone either way.

“Again, I just want to reiterate how proud I am of this team. It really was a great season.”

Salisbury 3, Lehighton 2

SINGLES

Bayto Cokrilja (L) def. Nolan Grejda 6-4, 6-0; Bekim Cokrilja (L) def. Ian Young 7-5, 2-6, 6-3; Jacob Knerr (S) def. Trey Spring 4-6, 6-2, 6-1.

DOUBLES

Blaine Berger/Ahmed Suleiman (S) def. Luke Blauch/Daniel Hoppes 6-3, 7-6 (10-8); Mohammed Suleiman/Jackson Kramp (S) def. Lucas Schatz/Zane Smith 7-6, 6-4.