ELSAH, IL – After earning the second seed in the 2024 SLIAC Tournament, the Principia men's soccer team hosted third seeded Webster University in their semifinal match on Wednesday evening in Elsah. After a scoreless first half, the Gorloks scored three goals in the second half to secure a 3-0 victory and move on to the championship.
The Panthers played a strong first half and generated the majority of the chances as they fired ten shots (three on goal) and held Webster to no shots on goal. However, Principia's inability to capitalize on their chances would cost them dearly in the end as Webster would find their scoring touch and finish on three of their six shots on goal in the second half. Of the Panthers 22 shots on the night, only six ended up on frame with many shots sailing high over the net. Gorloks keeper Luke Dillon made all six saves to shut out Principia and end their season earlier than planned.
Three standout players for the Panthers in the game were
Leander Linsler,
Diego Alas, and
Wizzy Afrani, with Linsler being named to the SLIAC All-Tournament Team.
Overall, it was a strong season for Principia as they went from second-to-last in the SLIAC standings in 2023 all the way to third in 2024. Despite dealing with a number of injuries, the Panthers battled through adversity to finish with a winning record of 7-6-3, including a formidable 5-2-2 in conference play. The team will look to build upon their improved play and renewed confidence heading into 2025.
