Liberal Defeats Appleton City 54-41; Will Play in Final Four for First Time in History
APPLETON CITY, Mo. — For the first time in their history, Liberal girls basketball will be playing in the final four. Head coach Brandi Goodell’s Bulldogs got the best of Appleton City in a 54-41 victory on Friday night.
The Bulldogs were lead by Ellaina LaNaer, who scored a game-high 22 points on the floor for Liberal. Taylor Swarnes and Abby Barton also chipped in with 22 points combined between the two starters.
The Bulldogs were in a tight contest in the first half, but ultimately pulled away with a 13 point victory on the road.
Up next, Liberal will face South Nodaway on Wednesday, March 6th at 8 p.m. in Columbia, Missouri at Mizzou Arena.
Postgame interviews are attached below:
Head coach Brandi Goodell explains the emotions of going to state for the first time.
Ellaina LaNear and Taylor Swarnes express the message Coach Goodell shared with them to help settle them into the game.
Abby Barton and Laney Simpson describe the support from their community.
Bailey Couch and Jordan Goodell explain the gratitude of going to state in beating a team they faced earlier this season.
