This past Saturday, the women's soccer team battled #12 Williams for a chance to play in the NESCAC championship. The two teams had met just a few weeks ago, with Williams taking home the win. The Panthers, eager to advance in the tournament, put up a strong fight against the Ephs, yet they fell short once again.
Saturday’s game started with Middlebury asserting themselves early. In the second minute, Midfielder Gigi Day ’27 nearly capitalized off a corner kick from Stella Espinasse ’27, but Williams’ goalkeeper was quick to respond and defend the shot attempt.
Back and forth action saw the Panthers and Ephs peppering the goal throughout the first half. In the 34th minute, Williams secured the early lead when Williams Elle Long slipped the ball past Middlebury’s senior goalie, Livia Davidson ’26.
A mere five minutes later, Williams almost scored again — key word, almost. Middlebury stood their ground on defense and bent, but didn’t break.
Heading into the second half, the Panthers shuffled their positioning.
“We switched into a formation that had a four back in hopes of getting more width and relieving some of the pressure on our backs,” midfielder Taya McClennen ’28 said.
To the Panther’s dismay, the Ephs recorded their second goal in the 70th minute.
Now down 2-0, the Panthers fought for a lifeline. This drive propelled them to score in the 88th minute, when Lauren Tracey ’29 snuck one past the Williams keeper, cutting the deficit to one.
With a minute and half to play, Middlebury was desperate for a goal to extend their season.
However, the Ephs played keep away until the end, shutting the door on Middlebury’s NESCAC tournament.
As the defeat hung over their shoulders, the squad could only hope their season was not over. To be sure, the Panthers have played remarkably well this season despite having graduated 15 seniors last season and taking on 14 first-years.
“This is our first season since 2021 making it past the quarter finals,” McClennen, who boasts a squad-best four goals this season said.
“Even though we lost in the semifinals, I am proud of what our team has overcome and proven thus far,” Goalkeeper Frankie Marston ’27.5 said.
Despite the loss, the team isn’t done yet. On Monday, the Panthers learned they will host Westfield State University this Saturday at 11 a.m., on the path to play in the NCAA finals.
Regardless of being in unfamiliar territory, the Panthers are expected to put up a strong fight. Ranked third in the NESCAC and 12th in last week's National Poll, the Panthers also hold the second highest shot count in the NESCAC and the second fewest goals against.
“We plan to keep taking it one game at a time, like we’ve done all season,” Davidson said. “I am truly grateful to Williams and every team we’ve played so far, showing us where we can improve our game.”
The future is bright for this squad, and eager for redemption and reward, the Panthers have the drive to go far in this tournament.
