The Cardinals clinched a 1‑0 victory over Williamsville in the Class 1A Rochester Sectional final, a result that hinged on a single, perfectly placed free kick by Raelyn Brammer. The goal not only secured the win but also sent the team marching into the supersectional round, where they will meet either Rock Island Alleman or Geneseo.
Brammer’s Moment of Luck
Brammer, who described the opportunity as a matter of luck, stepped up when the ball fell to her and struck it cleanly past the Williamsville keeper. Her composure under pressure delighted teammates and coaches alike, and the strike proved to be the difference in a tightly contested match.
Callie Wagner, a fellow senior and Brammer’s teammate, praised the collective effort that led to the breakthrough, noting the relief that spread across the bench once the ball hit the net. Goalkeeper Emma Sabatka also contributed with two crucial saves, while a midfield collision with Williamsville’s Brynn Stark left both players briefly sidelined before they returned to action.
Looking Ahead to the Supersectional
With the sectional title secured, the Cardinals now turn their focus to the supersectional, where they will face one of two formidable opponents. Coach Joe Fandel expressed confidence in his squad’s depth, while Brammer hinted at the excitement of continuing the season with a roster that includes several players headed to the University of Illinois Springfield.
The victory also marked a bittersweet farewell for several seniors who have defined the program in recent years. Players such as Calynn Frye, Kendyl Mirabile, and Brooklyn Termine will depart after a season that saw Pleasant Plains dominate earlier meetings with a combined 9‑1 score against Williamsville.
Other Sectional Highlights
In other action, Waterloo edged Springfield High 3‑2 in the Class 2A Alton Sectional, with Kamryn Hoffman finishing her high school career as the school’s all‑time leader in goals and assists. Meanwhile, Litchfield captured its first-ever sectional championship by defeating Alton Marquette 3‑1, a milestone that has the community buzzing about the program’s bright future.