The Panthers opened the game with a slightly new-looking formation that included midfielders Hayley Madsen and Leah Wightman being moved back to defense. With a new stronger-looking defense, the offense continued to be a force, with Cailey Neito and Keeler taking control up front. A mere four minutes into the game, Keeler got off a good strike, but Kim Cestaro made the save in goal for Cohoes. As the half progressed, the chances continued for the Panthers with Wightman sending a free kick to the far post where Neito struck the ball just over the cross bar.
Although Keeler has been the focal point of the offense all season long, it was Neito who was the offensive force in the first half. In the 24th minute, Neito dribbled in and struck a ball off the post. Four minutes later, Neito took a long ball and used her speed to go one-on-one with the keeper. Unfortunately for the Panthers, Neito’s shot went off the charging Cestaro and out for a corner. After a dominant first half for the Panthers, when the whistle blew, the game was still tied at 0-0.
Chatham continued its dominance in both chances and possession in the second half taking control of the contest. Two minutes into the second half, Megan Wenk passed to Keeler who slid the ball inside and finished for a 1-0 lead. After keeping up the pressure, the Panthers broke through for another goal in the 62nd minute. Abby Berninger played the ball in to Keeler who again found the back of the net and helped to put the game away for good.
With their new defensive unit, the Panthers gave up almost no true chances, and goalie Taylor Wenk had to make only three saves. Even with Madsen and Wightman in the back, the Panthers still scored two goals while forcing Cestaro into 10 saves on 20 shots.
The win sets up a showdown with third seed Tamarac who finished 13-2-2, putting them in second place in the Wasaren League. The Bengals possess a stifling defense that has surrendered just five goals the entire season, with a solid but not spectacular offense. For the Panthers to advance they will need to continue to find ways to get quality chances up front while limiting the pressure on Wenk. With the speed of Madsen and Wightman, along with the power of Emily Brown in the back, the Panthers defense should be able to contain Tamarac up front.
CHATHAM FREE KICK SAILS HIGH
