The Panthers haven’t been at full strength in weeks but continue to find ways to win. This was on full display last night, holding off a relentless Murray team 2-1, to advance to the second round of the state tournament.
“It was a tale of two halves tonight,” Daviess County head coach Doug Sandifer said. “We got good looks in the first half and missed on a couple of chances. In the second half we ended up defending our half more than we wanted to, but we held on.”
In the 21st minute, Silas Goebel found Cameron Bell to give the Panthers an early 1-0 lead. Four minutes later Kellen Crouch tied it for the Tigers, but off of a feed from Jack Quisenberry, Carter Payne scored what turned out to be the game-winning goal in the 31st minute
After firing off nine shots on goal in the first half, the Panthers could only muster two in the second. Goalie Harrison Dunaway stood tall in goal, finishing with seven saves.
Later this week, the Panthers will face off against Woodford County who took down Butler County 2-1. Sandifer wants his team to find a consistent attack if they are to keep advancing.
“We got to keep protecting our goal, but also be able to get out on the attack more frequently,” Sandifer said.
Lady Panthers offense couldn’t find its mark
The Lady Panthers’ state tournament run has come to an unceremonious end, falling in the first round to Marshall County 1-0. Daviess County had a few opportunities but was unable to capitalize – firing off 12 shots. They finished with six saves, three in each half.
“We played pretty well, particularly in the first half,” Daviess County head coach David Sandifer said. “We had several opportunities but couldn’t convert one. We gave up an unfortunate goal in the second half and we had opportunities after that we couldn’t convert. It was overall a pretty good season and we are proud of the girls’ effort. They left it on the field and as coaches, that’s all you can ask.”
