The Parkersburg South girls soccer team showcased their skills and determination during a thrilling match against Wheeling Central Catholic on Saturday afternoon at the Erickson All-Sports Facility. Despite facing a strong opponent in the Maroon Knights, the Patriots managed to secure a hard-fought 1-0 victory, with senior Adi Altizer scoring the lone goal of the match at the 22:49 mark of the first half.
Throughout the game, Parkersburg South had numerous opportunities to increase their lead, but Wheeling Central’s sophomore goalkeeper Bella Fitzsimmons put up a formidable defense, making several impressive saves to keep her team in the game. Despite the missed chances, South’s coach Ron Bucholtz commended his team for creating scoring opportunities and emphasized the importance of finishing those chances in future matches.
The difference-maker in the game was Altizer’s goal, which proved to be the deciding factor in the Patriots’ victory. Altizer’s skill and determination were evident throughout the match, as she nearly added a second goal in the second half, only to be denied by a well-timed defensive play by a Maroon Knight.
On the defensive end, junior goalkeeper Emilee Owens stood out for Parkersburg South, making crucial saves and commanding her area effectively, particularly during Wheeling Central’s corner kicks. Coach Bucholtz praised Owens for her decision-making and ability to claim the ball in high-pressure situations, helping to secure the shutout victory for the Patriots.
Despite the intense heat and challenging conditions, both teams displayed resilience and determination throughout the match. Wheeling Central’s coach Ashley Winters commended her players for their effort and fighting spirit, despite the tough competition they faced from a larger school like Parkersburg South.
As the season progresses, both teams will look to build on their performances and continue to improve. For Parkersburg South, the focus will be on finishing scoring chances and involving more players in the offensive play to reduce the workload on key players like senior midfielder Regan Shockey, who experienced a cramp late in the match.
Overall, the match between Parkersburg South and Wheeling Central showcased the competitive spirit and skill of high school girls soccer in West Virginia. With talented players on both sides and dedicated coaching staff, the future looks bright for both teams as they strive for success in the upcoming season.
