The Bulldogs played a good first half, coming back from a 16-10 Huskies' lead in the first quarter. Steph Krupke hit a key three pointer right before halftime to put the Bulldogs ahead 25-23.
Paynesville came out cold in the third quarter, scoring only 10 points. Meanwhile, Albany converted eight straight shots, scoring 24 points.
Paynesville picked up their momentum after Tanya Lieser scored her 1,000 career point on two free throws in the fourth. The Bulldogs got within four points before Albany took control again. Paynesville eventually had to foul, and Albany converted 12 of 16 free throws. Albany won the dog fight 67-56.
Leading the Bulldogs was Lieser with 24 points and 10 rebounds. Krupke had 14 points, six rebounds, and six assists. Stacy Lieser added 10 points and six assists.
| Albany-- | 16 | 7 | 24 | 20 | - 67 |
| Paynesville-- | 10 | 15 | 10 | 21 | - 56 |
Annandale 42
Paynesville 33
On Friday, Annandale came to Paynesville for the Bulldogs' last home game of the season. It was a low scoring affair, with Annandale winning 42-33.
Paynesville's four seniors were honored before the game. Tanya Lieser was honored for scoring her 1,000th point and presented with a plaque. Lieser played varsity for four years, and is a two-sport athlete. Carrie Hemmesch, Tiff Rausch, and Carin Frenchick played varsity for three years and are all three-sport athletes.
Paynesville stayed with Annandale in the first half by being aggressive on offense and defense. The Cardinals' defense also stopped Paynesville's guards from getting many shots. The Bulldogs were cold shooting, only making 16 of 45 field goals. Annandale led at the half, 23-19.
Things continued to go Annandale's way, as they stayed in front of the Bulldogs the whole game. Paynesville also allowed Annandale to get many offensive rebounds for buckets. Paynesville only managed to score six points in the third quarter putting them back 33-25.
Annandale went on to win 42-33, which put the Bulldogs at 11-11 for the season.
Leading the Bulldogs was Tanya Lieser with 12 points and eight rebounds. Steph Krupke added nine points.
The Bulldogs played Litchfield Tuesday night, Feb. 29, in the first round of the playoffs. If they win, they will play the winner of top-seed New London-Spicer and eighth- seed Howard Lake-Waverly at Annandale on Thursday night at 7:30 p.m.
| Annandale-- | 13 | 10 | 10 | 9 | - 42 |
| Paynesville-- | 8 | 11 | 6 | 8 | - 33 |