TECUMSEH ? Free State High’s girls soccer team scored first, but defending Class 5A state champion Shawnee Heights and a howling wind proved too tough as the Firebirds fell, 2-1, Tuesday.

“For our first game we did some positive things,” FSHS coach Jason Pendleton said. “We really feel like we have to get a lot better for our next game against Lawrence High, though.”

The intracity showdown is 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Youth Sports Inc. fields.

Against the Thunderbirds, Banaka Okwuone drew first blood, taking a pass from freshman Alexa Moreno and burying it with about 15 minutes remaining in first half.

About 10 minutes later, Heights pulled even, scoring on a penalty kick. The T-birds utilized a strong wind in the second half, scoring the game winner with about 20 minutes to play.

Pendleton cited Clare Robinson and Emily Erb for their play and lauded goalkeeper Meghan Hrenchir.