The scoreboard didn’t tell the whole story.

Lehighton’s postseason run came to an end Thursday night, but the heart, character and resilience that carried the Indians to the District 11 Class 4A semifinals were on full display in a 4-0 loss to top-seeded Blue Mountain at Northern Lehigh.

The Indians nearly struck first. Freshman Claire Bridy broke free behind the defense within the first seven minutes and put a shot on goal that was saved to keep the match scoreless.

Moments later, Blue Mountain found its rhythm — and struck quickly. The Eagles erupted for three goals to take control, using crisp passing and confident finishing to build a 3-0 lead.

Sophomore Lexi Waschko opened the scoring with 29:15 left in the first half, breaking through for the game’s first goal. Senior Kelly Canfield doubled the advantage minutes later with a strike from about 25 yards out, and Waschko added her second shortly after to make it 3-0.

“We played really well,” said Blue Mountain head coach Matt Kenitzer. “They started off very quick, very controlled, and the quality of finishing was awesome. Just getting those three goals right in that short span really got us into our momentum. I think they did a great job controlling the middle, being strong defensively and just moving the ball around. I’m proud of them.”

Trailing by three, Lehighton continued to push. Bridy made another strong run midway through the half that earned the Indians a corner kick, and later fired a free kick from 20 yards that was blocked. With just over five minutes left before halftime, she broke free once more before the Blue Mountain defense stopped her near the box.

Blue Mountain, champions of the Schuylkill League, added its fourth goal midway through the second half when junior Addie Warke drilled a long shot that snuck under the crossbar and into the corner of the net shortly after a corner kick.

“All through the year we’ve had multiple girls scoring goals,” Kenitzer said. “It’s not just one or two main girls. Their confidence in that finishing ability, especially from farther out, has been building. We have a wide range of quality players, and it’s awesome to watch.”

The fourth-seeded Indians maintained their energy throughout the second half. Bridy again created a chance in close, but Blue Mountain’s Sophia Spolski cleared the ball from danger to preserve the shutout. Senior Mylee Lutsko followed with a pair of late shots — one saved and another that went just wide — as Lehighton continued to battle until the final whistle.

Kenitzer credited his defense for staying organized and composed against Bridy’s pressure.

“Number 18 — she’s a very, very good player,” Kenitzer said of Bridy. “She got through us a couple of times, but our defense did an awesome job tracking back and keeping her out. That’s a strong group, and even more telling when we’re playing with three in the back.”

Lehighton head coach Carl Wolter said his team’s response after the early barrage reflected its maturity and resolve.

“Our team really, from getting shell-shocked like that, came back and regrouped,” Wolter said. “The girls never quit, and that’s why I love coaching them. I have a lot of faith in this team, and we’re going to miss these seniors because they really are the heart and soul of our team.”

For Wolter, Thursday’s result was about far more than the final score — it was a testament to the program’s growth.

“This group of girls, since they’ve been with me the last four years, has gone to districts three out of four years,” he said. “We’ve had winning seasons three out of four seasons and won district playoff games in two out of four seasons. So this is definitely the winningest group of girls to come through Lehighton High School by far.”

Lehighton qualified for the Colonial League tournament earlier this fall and earned its district semifinal berth with a 2-1 quarterfinal win over Pottsville on Tuesday, when Bridy scored both goals.

Wolter said their leadership, unity and selflessness have redefined Lehighton girls soccer.

“It’s not just their ability,” he said. “It’s their character, their personality, their responsibility — how much they want to work together. We made this a family. Their selflessness and willingness to do whatever it takes for the team has elevated the program. They’ve left an imprint that will be long lasting.”

UP NEXT ... Blue Mountain advances to the district championship against No. 3 Southern Lehigh, looking to capture the title after falling short in last year’s final.

HIGH PRAISE ... Wolter applauded the team’s seniors for their role in the program’s success. They include Avery Bauder, Sadie Monk, Layla Muth-Meek, Mylee Lutsko, Leah Uyvari and Morgan Myers.

District 11 Class 4A Semifinal

Blue Mountain 4, Lehighton 0

Lehighton 0 0 - 0

Blue Mountain 3 1 - 4

Blue Mountain goals: Waschko 2, Canfield, Warke.

Records: Lehighton (12-9); Blue Mountain (18-3)