It’s still early in the season, but the Girls Varsity Ghosts are looking strong already.  The football team is getting a lot of attention – and they should.  However, this girl’s soccer team is packed with talent and has massive potential this season. They truly displayed how dangerous they can be during a brutally hot, September match this week.

Their most recent home game against Springfield on September 20th was a close game but Abington seemed to have the upper hand from the start. Springfield is also a very talented and well-coached team, however Abington was dominating the pitch and possession time from the tap.  What became clear quickly wasn’t just the talent, but the “want to” in this team. That culture starts with the coaching staff, but it’s clear to see that this team has endless fight.

Over the course of the game, the varsity girls created a ton of opportunities and while there were definitely some shots that could have found the back of the net, the offensive pressure they displayed is going to pay off as the season progresses. I was also really impressed to see how much vocal support this team gives to each other – not all soccer teams are like this and it’s worth pointing out.

I have to point out the Kaeser sisters – both of whom are on the team and really flashed in this game.  From what I know and what I’ve heard, they are great teammates as well! And a quick shoutout to Nya Riggs who looked really strong – and just committed to a D1 school!  Making Abington famous!!!

Back to the game – They played 40 minute halves and  though we controlled the game, we finished at a 0-0 draw at halftime. 

Coming out of the break, Springfield came with some solid pressure but our keeper made impressive saves and showed excellent field-vision, really controlling the defensive third of the field. The team as a whole showed excellent discipline. Two corner kicks and a free kick were defended effectively early in the second half and the score remained tied at 0’s. 

Tensions grew between these teams as the goalless match continued, but it was clear Abington was pushing the majority of the action into the Springfield defending third.  I saw a lot of close calls, but it did seem clear to me that we had the advantage throughout the match. Consistently strong defensive play kept Springfield from developing any coordinated attack.  I could see the frustration from their players throughout the entire second half. 

We had a moment of panic when Katie Egan went down and had to be carted off the field – she’ll be missed on the pitch and of course we’re all hoping for a quick recovery (also because she ref’s my little sister’s rec league games!)

At the end of the day, Abington just wanted it more.  The ultimate winning goal came off of a brilliant cross/assist by midfielder Vivian Siravo followed by a well-placed finish from Alexis Whaley with just 5 minutes left.  Alexis came close to scoring again not long after, but the score remained 1-nill.

Springfield’s last chance came in the form of a free kick centered on the Abington goal with less than 60 seconds on the clock.  Our keeper once again came up big with a solid stop.  Overall, fight and determination this team showed is what led us to this win and as a spectator, I expect a lot more this season.