ELSAH, IL – The Panthers Women's Soccer team hosted Rockford University on Saturday evening looking for their first win of the season. Though the Panthers improved throughout the game, they fell 1-0 for the second time in eight days.
Principia had waves during which Rockford were on their heels and outshot the Regents 7 to 2, but the Panthers were unable to make the most of their chances. In the 54th minute, Rockford was awarded a PK and converted the penalty for the only goal they would need to steal the win. Principia's best chance of the match came in the final minute when defender
Olivia Scott blasted a shot from just outside the 18 that forced the keeper to make a diving save.
Kaylee Kleist then tried to knock in the rebound, but the keeper was able to pounce on the ball before it crossed line, preserving the shutout and the win.
Amarachi Ejimadu was once again stalwart in the back line. While the referee gave a questionable PK against Ejimadu, her defense, alongside workhorses
Olivia Scott and
Shayla Kelley, limited the Regents to just one shot on goal outside of the penalty.
Zayana Brown and
Dachelle Carter were once again standouts in the midfield with their defensive impact and counter attacking moments.
"We finished incredibly strong," said Coach Thomas afterwards. "We showed at the end of the game that we could control and dominate a game in possession, territory, and attacking chances. Our next step is to play the whole game at this level. We are still a young team that is learning a lot about ourselves and what it takes to win. We have shown that we have great potential – now we need to show the consistency. We're looking forward to Tuesday for our next opportunity to take that next step."
Up Next: The Panthers will take on the University of Health Sciences & Pharmacy at Maplewood High School in St. Louis on Tuesday at 7:00 pm. Come out and support if you are in the area!
Hear more comments from Coach Thomas after the game:
