To reach the state championship match for the first time, East Lake knew it would have to find a way to Viera, which had allowed just seven goals all season. 

It did not take long for the Eagles to get on the scoreboard in Wednesday’s Class 6A semifinal match. . 

Early in the first half, Kylie Larrahona scored from outside the box to give East Lake the lead. It was the freshman’s sixth goal of the season. 

From there, the defense took over, thwarting every offensive counter Viera tried in order to get even. It was enough to hold on in a 1-0 victory. 

The Eagles (17-2-4) not only extended their win streak to nine matches but also advanced to Saturday’s title match. 

It has been a banner year for Tampa Bay area girls soccer teams with East Lake joining Shorecrest (2A) and Academy of the Holy Names (4A) as state finalists. The Chargers and Jaguars both fell short against powerhouse programs. 

For the Eagles to get past that championship hurdle, they will have to knock off Ponte Vedra, the nation’s top-ranked team.