GREENVILLE, Ill. – In front of an electric Francis Field crowd, the Greenville women's soccer team's season came to a dramatic end, falling to Spalding in a penalty shootout after 110 minutes of scoreless play in the SLIAC Championship Final on Saturday. The Panthers played with grit, energy, and determination, controlling much of the match but coming up just short in a 6–5 shootout defeat.
How it Happened:
1st Half
Greenville opened the match on the attack, dictating tempo and creating early chances through
Dillyn Baer and
Angie Russo.
Goalkeeper
Madison Ashford set the tone defensively, making a key save in the opening minute to deny Spalding.
The Panthers' back line, led by
Alexis Romeo and
Katelyn Christensen, stayed composed and limited Spalding's scoring opportunities as the half ended 0–0.
2nd Half
The Panthers kept the pressure on after halftime, with Baer,
Allyson Schulz, and Christensen testing Spalding's defense.
Ashford made a key save on a close-range shot by Spalding in the 51st minute to keep the score 0–0.
Fresh legs from substitutions like Petroski, Castillo, and Valenzuela helped maintain intensity. Greenville earned several corners and controlled possession late, creating chances but unable to break through, sending the match to overtime.
Overtime
Greenville came inches from a championship-winning moment in overtime.
Dillyn Baer tested the keeper with a sharp shot, and
Avery Rahden's strike rattled the right post in the 99th minute.
Kylie Petroski also forced a strong save, while
Idaly Valenzuela's curling effort hit the left woodwork late in double overtime. Despite relentless pressure and a series of near-misses, the Panthers couldn't find the back of the net, sending the SLIAC Championship Final to a penalty shootout.
Shootout
Greenville confidently buried its first five penalties, showing poise under pressure, but a narrow miss in the sixth round sealed the heartbreaking finish for the Panthers.
Season Reflection:
Though the ending was difficult, Greenville's run to the SLIAC Championship Final showcased heart, unity, and resilience. The Panthers closed their memorable 2025 season (11-8-1, 7-0-1 SLIAC) with pride, representing Greenville with passion and excellence in front of their home fans at Francis Field.
