Box Score Elsah, ILL. -- The Principia Panthers had a tough loss this Thursday night against the Westminster College Blue Jays. Although both teams matched in similar skill level, Principia was unable to solve the problem of Westminster's high pressure and aggressiveness. In the first half, Principia had an early hand ball in the box, which resulted in Westminster's first goal. Principia responded by battling for the next 30 minutes to regain control and keep possession. Junior and keeper,
Genevieve Smith, showed up with some critical saves in the air and on the ground. Gen was also protected by her junior center back, Sam Bronkar, who also showed her heart by throwing her body in front of shots to defend the net. Bronkar earned the "Work Horse" award for the night, a team award that recognizes an individual that does not give up. Westminster found the back of Principia's net again towards the end of the first half when Principia misread a ball and couldn't recover soon enough. The score at half time was 2-0 for Westminster.
In the second half, Westminster scored a 3rd and 4th goal from chances inside a compact 18 yard box; players on both sides obstructed Smith's vision to save the ball scoring. In the final minute of play, senior captain,
Georgia Mae Hurley, took a hail Mary shot outside the 18 yard box that chipped the keeper and went in the goal reminding her teammates of the joy of the game. The final score was 4-1.
Unfortunately, due to the outcome of this match, Principia will not qualify for the SLIAC Conference Tournament in November. The Panther's next game is Thursday October 29th at home versus Fontbonne University. This will be Principia's last home game of the season and a night to honor the PCWS seniors.
