The evening air over the Naperville soccer field was electric as Naperville Central and Benet Academy met in the girls’ soccer sectional final, each having navigated a flawless semifinal to earn the right to contest the title.
A Penalty That Made the Difference
From the opening whistle, both sides displayed disciplined defense, with Emily Tilton and her back line forcing numerous clearances while Annie Fitzgerald orchestrated the midfield tempo. Giada McGlynn’s steady presence kept the Central defense organized, and her first‑half save preserved a 0‑0 deadlock.
The deadlock was finally broken in the second half when Emerson Burke was awarded a penalty. The senior forward, who has already eclipsed 30 goals this season, stepped up calmly and struck the ball into the net, giving Central a 1‑0 lead that would prove decisive.
Benet’s response was fierce. A corner kick clipped the post, and Victoria Polanco’s curling free kick was fingertip‑saved by Erin Hackett, who also denied a late surge from Kira Lambin. Kasey Glynn’s last‑ditch tackle in the dying minutes ensured the lead held.
Looking Ahead to the Supersectionals
With the sectional trophy secured, Naperville Central will now travel to St. Charles North to face Wheaton Warrenville South on Tuesday. The Supersectional matchup promises another tightly contested battle, and the team is eager to extend its winning streak.
Benet Academy’s senior class, featuring standouts such as Malia Shen and Nicole Smith, capped a remarkable season by capturing both the ESCC title and a regional championship, leaving a lasting imprint on the program.