by Steve Bradley
The Panther field hockey team went up to Shenendehowa High School to take on arch rival Greenwich (18-1) on Sunday, November 4. The Greenwich Witches had beaten the Panthers twice this year by a total of two goals. It is very difficult to beat a good team three times in one season, and the Panthers were looking for a victory to advance into the State playoffs.
After 60 minutes of regulation play and two 10 minute, seven-on-seven, overtimes, both teams were scoreless. It certainly wasn’t for lack of trying. They were two very equal teams, and each had times when they were in control. The Panthers controlled much of the second half but just could not get the ball into the net. Greenwich, who has won the last three Section II championships, also had their chances but couldn’t capitalize. Panther goalie Frankie Pearson had 12 saves, the Witches goalie had 10. The two teams could have played for three more hours with the same result. At this point, by rules of the game, the tiebreaker is strokes.
Coach Denise Campbell chose the five players she thought had the best chance of getting one shot past the opponents’ goalie, and the Greenwich coach did the same. Greenwich shot first, and each team alternated shots. After nine players had taken their shots, Greenwich held a 2 – 1 advantage with one Panther attempt left. After the last shooter’s attempt, Greenwich kept that advantage, taking the championship for a fourth consecutive year.
The Panthers ended the season with a fine 15 – 4 record. Many of Coach Campbell’s team will be returning next year, some for years to come, so the future looks bright for winning seasons and championship games.
