Box Score Elsah, IL- Principia men's soccer ended their five game losing skid with a resounding win over Spalding University tonight in the final game of the season for the panthers. In a season in which goals have come at a premium, the panthers finally found some success in finding the net. The game began with the all too familiar near misses that we have been accustomed to.
Kevin Silcox came closest as he reacted first to a cross from
McGuire Semnacher but his header was cleared off the line by an eagle's defender. Silcox had a great night proving to be a handful pushing the ball forward for Principia. The panthers however were not to be denied on the night as a good build up play led to a
Nate Waters through pass to Semnacher who made no mistake with his effort finding the side bar before rolling into the net to take the lead in the 28th minute. Just a minute later, Semnacher broke through the left flank again and served an inviting ball to
Robert Barnacle whose header kissed of the side bar before rolling into the net.
The second half was a mixed bag as the panthers took their foot off the pedal and allowed the eagles to create some opportunities. In the 64th minute of play Semnacher would be at it again this time on a counter attack. His service to the back post drifted over the keepers head and into the upper ninety for a 3-0 lead. The eagles however did not go away quietly as a feeble shot from 25 yards was mishandled by panther custodian
Matt Jones in the 73rd minute for a consolation goal. Sensing the moment, the eagles pushed forward for more and were fortunate as they caught the panthers on a counter and slipped in the second goal. However it was too little too late as the panthers did a good job holding on to their lead the rest of the way. The panthers finish the season 5-14-1 and 4-3-1 in conference play. The panthers also say goodbye to their only seniors, Barnacle and
Daniel Otieno. Barnacle ended his career with his only career goal on senior night. He also had an assist on the third goal. Otieno made a cameo appearance early in the game following a span of seven games he has missed due to injury. Thank you all for your support and we will see you next fall.
