Lady Lions Soccer Reaches Third Round of Playoffs for First Time Since 2018

Brownwood Lady Lions defeat Benbrook 2-1 in area round to match program's single-season wins record

Mar. 25, 2026 at 2:30pm

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The Brownwood Lady Lions soccer team matched their most victories in a single season and reached the third round of the playoffs for the first time since 2018 with a 2-1 victory over Benbrook in the Class 4A Division II Region I area round. The Lady Lions jumped out to a 1-0 lead at halftime and held on for the win, setting up a matchup with Midland Greenwood in the regional semifinals.

Why it matters

The Lady Lions' playoff run marks a significant milestone for the program, as they have not advanced this far in the postseason since 2018. This achievement comes as the team has matched its single-season wins record, highlighting the progress and success the squad has enjoyed this year.

The details

In Tuesday's victory, the Lady Lions opened the scoring in the first half with a goal from Kynlee Jefferson, assisted by Alayna Hernandez. Benbrook was able to tie the game in the second half, but Kynlie Lewis scored the game-winning goal for Brownwood, rebounding a shot that ricocheted off the Benbrook goalkeeper. The Lady Lions' defense, led by Icess Hall, played a key role in the win, with goalkeeper Hannah Deen making multiple saves to keep Brownwood in the game.

  • The Lady Lions (18-3-1) matched the 2025 squad with 18 victories.
  • Kynlee Jefferson opened the scoring with 18 minutes left before halftime.
  • Benbrook was able to tie the score at 1 with 26:17 remaining in the contest.
  • Kynlie Lewis scored the game-winning goal at the 18:57 mark of the second half.

The players

Alexis Walker

The head coach of the Brownwood Lady Lions soccer team.

Kynlee Jefferson

A player for the Brownwood Lady Lions who scored the opening goal in the game against Benbrook.

Alayna Hernandez

A player for the Brownwood Lady Lions who assisted on the opening goal by Kynlee Jefferson.

Hannah Deen

The goalkeeper for the Brownwood Lady Lions who pitched a first-half shutout and made multiple key saves to keep the team in the game.

Icess Hall

A player for the Brownwood Lady Lions who led the team's defensive effort, running with Benbrook's best player and keeping them in the game.

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What they’re saying

“This is a feeling we've never felt before because we've never reached this round of the playoffs since I've been here as a coach. It's a great day to be a Lady Lion and so I'm happy for this group and so proud of who they are. This is the best feeling in the world.”

— Alexis Walker, Lady Lions head coach

“Hannah had multiple saves for us and came up big for us in key moments. Our defense, led by Icess Hall, she got her work in today running with their best player, but she was able to hold her own and kept us in the game.”

— Alexis Walker, Lady Lions head coach

“They were able to find a goal, then Nylah shot and the goalie blocked it, but three girls were behind Nylah so I knew we were going to get it in the net, and what a testament for Kynlie Lewis to be able to capitalize on that and secure us the win. She's a senior and I love to see her get that last goal for us. Three seniors, Kynlie, Icess and Hannah, they all stepped up for us when we needed them.”

— Alexis Walker, Lady Lions head coach

What’s next

The Lady Lions will next face Midland Greenwood (17-2-6) – also a 2-1 winner over Borger Tuesday night – in the Class 4A Division II Region I semifinals at 5 p.m. Friday at Abilene Wylie's Hugh Sandifer Stadium.

The takeaway

The Lady Lions' historic playoff run showcases the team's resilience and determination, as they have matched their single-season wins record and advanced further than they have in nearly a decade. This achievement highlights the program's growth and the players' ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most.