Pennridge School District. (Credit: Pennridge School District)
Pennridge took a major step toward an outright SOL National Conference title with a decisive 9-5 win over Central Bucks West on Wednesday night.
According to The Reporter, under first-year head coach and alum Maddie Dachowski, the Rams leaned on a strong defensive performance and disciplined offense to secure the top spot in the league standings. The win was especially meaningful after last season’s shared title with Pennsbury, fulfilling Dachowski’s season-long goal of sole ownership, per the report.
Central Bucks West started strong, jumping to a 4-1 lead early in the second quarter as Pennridge struggled with defensive fouls and two yellow cards, according to The Reporter.
However, the Rams regrouped during a critical break between quarters, refocusing on clean, aggressive play and cutting down on penalties. The defensive shift paid off immediately, as Pennridge outscored CB West 8-1 over the remainder of the game and didn’t allow another goal until the final minutes, per the report.
Aubrey Bailey led the Rams’ offense in the first half with a hat trick, sparking a rally that tied the game by halftime. Taylor Burkett added her own hat trick, including two key fourth-quarter goals, while sophomore goalie Lily Blair anchored the defense with nine saves and recorded her 100th career stop, according to the report.
With defenders Mackena Charles, Norah Herbst, Abby Keller, and Julia Lenox holding strong in the back, Pennridge’s defense proved impenetrable down the stretch.
Still unbeaten in conference play, Pennridge controls its own destiny with two league games remaining: A May 7 matchup between CB West and Council Rock North could factor into the final standings.
