Lady Knights Kick Off Season with Grit and Goals!
The Central Penn College women’s soccer team has embarked on their season with a blend of fierce determination, impressive individual performances, and unwavering teamwork, battling through challenges to secure two inspiring victories in their first three matches. Despite facing significant injuries and often playing with a limited roster, these Lady Knights are proving that grit and heart can overcome adversity.
Triumphant Start Against Trinity Washington
The season opener saw the Lady Knights travel to Washington D.C. for a challenging match against NCAA Division III opponent, Trinity Washington University. Even while playing with fewer players for the entire game, Central Penn dominated, securing a resounding 4-0 victory! Freshman sensation Kayli Davis immediately made her mark with a brilliant brace, netting two goals. Not to be outdone, ANia Lalic showcased incredible skill by dribbling the length of the field to score, while Honestee Coldsmith notched the first goal of her collegiate career, sealing the deal. Anchoring the defense, goalkeeper Mady Brymesser earned a well-deserved shutout with six crucial saves. Coach Grubesky praised the team’s “hard work and extra effort” and highlighted the superb play of First Team All-Conference players Lalic and Brymesser.
Battling to Victory Against Manor College
Next, the Lady Knights hit the road to face Manor College. Once again, playing numbers down, Central Penn showcased their resilience, prevailing with a 4-1 win! ANia Lalic opened the scoring with a perfectly placed direct free kick. After Manor College managed to tie the score just before halftime, the Lady Knights came out re-energized. Kayli Davis put Central Penn back in the lead by following up on a rebound for her third goal of the season. The pressure intensified, but backup keeper Lindsay Childs made a spectacular diving save at a critical moment, preserving the one-goal lead. Honestee Coldsmith then scored after a fantastic run from midfield, providing some cushion, and ANia Lalic earned her brace with a superb individual effort, finding a gap and beating several defenders to seal the win. Coach Grubesky commended the team’s determination, stating, “Our girls bounced back and were determined to win the game.”
A Hard-Fought Battle Against Christendom College
The Lady Knights then faced their first Eastern States Athletic Conference (ESAC) match against a formidable opponent, Christendom College – the reigning conference champions and USCAA national championship runner-up. Battling through injuries and playing their second match in just three days, Central Penn ultimately fell 3-0. However, the scoreboard doesn’t tell the full story of their effort. Goalkeeper Mady Brymesser delivered an absolutely unbelievable performance, recording an astounding thirty (30) saves on 33 shots on goal, keeping the Lady Knights in the game against a top-tier offense. Coach Grubesky acknowledged Christendom’s “clinic” but expressed immense pride in his team, stating, “Our ladies never gave up, left it all on the field, and played their hearts out against a very tough team. Mady was absolutely amazing today and kept the game close.”
Looking Ahead
The Central Penn Lady Knights have proven their mettle early in the season, showcasing incredible spirit, talent, and a refusal to back down despite the challenges. Their commitment to each other and the program is evident in every match.
Mark your calendars! The Lady Knights will host Trinity Washington for a rematch on Thursday, October 9th, at City Island with a 2:00 pm kick-off. Don’t miss their “Pink Out” game for breast cancer awareness when they host Manor College on Tuesday, October 14th, at the Skyline Sports Complex! Let’s pack the stands and support our incredible Lady Knights!
Stay tuned for more updates on the Central Penn College women’s soccer team as they continue their season!
