The improving Oak Harbor High School soccer team lost 3-0 to Lynnwood in the league opener Tuesday, March 20, at Wildcat Memorial Stadium.

“We continue to play much better, but unfortunately we are not seeing the results in terms of wins and goals,” Oak Harbor coach Jeff Laiblin said.

Only an outstanding save by the Lynnwood goalie off a shot by Eric Closson kept Oak Harbor from going into halftime with a 1-0 lead.

The Wildcats controlled the match in the second half, Laiblin said, but an “unlucky bounce” led to a Royal goal.

Minutes later Lynnwood scored again on a breakaway.

Then after the Lynnwood keeper stopped the Wildcats on a three-shot sequence, the Royals tallied on another breakaway.

“The game marked improvement in several areas — strong play for the defense and better offensive presence,” Laiblin said.

Oak Harbor (0-1, 0-4-1) goes to Edmonds-Woodway (1-0, 3-1) at 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 23.

Andrew Eaton boots the ball for the Wildcats Tuesday. (Photo by John Fisken)

Nathan Merrill advances the ball with a header against Lynnwood. (Photo by John Fisken)