McIntosh and Fayette County girls make region 5-AAAA semis, qualify for state

One team is returning to the postseason for the first time in over a decade and the other has its sights set on reaching its third consecutive state title game. Both would like to keep playing this weekend and secure a home game to start the state playoffs.

McIntosh’s Lady Chiefs took on Sandy Creek Thursday afternoon, led by eight points after one quarter and 12 points at the half. McIntosh weathered a few rallies from the Lady Patriots and hit some big three-pointers to begin some scoring surges of their own. The Lady Chiefs built a 17 point lead in the third quarter and cruised to a 65-46 win, despite an arduous and physical fourth quarter.

“We knew it would be a hard fought game and I’m proud of these girls,” said McIntosh head coach David Dowse. “We had three goals this season: win 16 games and we have won 17, win half of our region games and we went 8-4 and make it to the state playoffs and we have.” It is believed to be the first time since 1999 that McIntosh’s girls have made it to the state playoffs.

McIntosh was led by 27 points from Gabby Seiler, while Shelbi Sims added 12 points and Laura Higgason added seven. Ebony McNeill led Sandy Creek with 11 points and Ariel Parker added nine.

Several hours later, Fayette County took on Northgate and won 56-38. The Lady Tigers held the Lady Vikings to 10 first half points and easily won. Anma Onyeuku led Fayette County with 22 points, while Brianna Banks led Northgate with 16.

Three local teams will play in today’s semifinal action. McIntosh’s girls take on Mays at 4 p.m., while Fayette County’s girls will face Douglas County at 7 p.m. In the nightcap, Fayette County’s boys will take on Mays at 8:30 p.m.