In its regular-season finale, the Manheim Township field hockey team wanted a challenge heading into the postseason. That challenge came in the form of the previously undefeated Palmyra Cougars
In a gutsy back-and-forth nonleague game, the Blue Streaks defeated the Cougars 3-2 on Monday at Neffsville.
Township head coach Jess Shellenberger said closing the regular season with the win was important, especially looking back on the team’s schedule.
“I thought we played really well,” Shellenberger said. “I think our nonleague schedule has prepared us for a game like this. It’s a great way for us to go into the postseason knowing that we can compete with anybody.”
Township (7-7-3) set the tone early, keeping the ball in the attacking zone. Just over a minute in, Rhylee Givens popped up a floater that found its way into the back of the cage to make it 1-0.
Shellenberger said that scoring first against an undefeated team was key for the Blue Streaks.
“It gives you a little more confidence,” Shellenberger said. “That’s something that I think we’ve struggled with all season, taking the lead and maintaining it. To come out here in this last game against a really good opponent and do that, I’m really proud of the kids.”
Following Givens’ goal, Palmyra (10-1) drew a corner, leading to Jovie Weaver burying the equalizer.
Township fell behind 2-1 in the third quarter, but less than two minutes later, Kenzie Givens found a hole to tie it at 2-2.
With under two minutes to go, Township made sure there would be no overtime. Givens, who had been heavily involved throughout, shot a pass to Julia Weaver, who snuck it past keeper Abby Bennett.
Township will play next on Oct. 21 in the first round of the PIAA Class 3A against an opponent to be determined.
Interview with Manheim Township’s Oly Sponagle at L-L Field Hockey Media Day
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