Penn’s Girls Soccer Team established itself as a force on the state landscape by defeating Class 2-A No. 1 and defending state champion Evansville Memorial, 2-0, in the St. Joseph Invitational at Lakeville’s Newton Park on Saturday, Aug. 19, 2023.
Junior Anika Guenther struck in the 33rd minute off an assist from Sophomore Lexi Leader.
Penn relied on a Freshmen connection to pull ahead 2-0.
Freshman Emily Keegan scored in the 64th minute thanks to an assist from Freshman Maddy Johnson.
Junior Gwen Eiler earned the shutout.
“It’s always exciting when you get the opportunity to compete against a top-ranked , defending state champion,” Penn Girls Soccer Head Coach Jeff Hart said. “I’m thrilled with the composure and competitive spirit our young team showed. Beating a No. 1 ranked team is a rare thing and it’s something we’ll build on as we move forward.
“Our leaders on the field were outstanding,” Hart continued. “Anika (Gunther) was relentless in attacking the backline, Megan (Zhang) is quickly becoming one of the best midfielders in the state, and our entire defense, led by Seniors Malaika Waithaka and Kate Noonan, have been excellent this weekend.”
