By Bradley Schlegel
Phillylacrosse.com, Posted 5/22/16
Maddie Gebert scored four goals to lead Owen J. Roberts to a 12-9 victory over Merion Mercy Academy Saturday in the District 1 quarterfinals at West Chester East.
Maddie Gebert
Anna Dempsey contributed three goals and Frankie Carroll added two goals and an assist for the Wildcats (20-3), who scored three of the final four goals to snap an 8-8 tie, and qualify for the state tournament.
OJR will play Bishop Shanahan in the semifinals Tuesday at Downingtown West at 7:15 p.m.
Kelsey Kilgallon’s goal less than seven minutes into the second half put the ‘Cats ahead for good.
“We did just enough to win,” Owen J. Roberts head coach Joe Tornetta said. “Our defense played great down the stretch. They really picked it up at the end.”
As one of four seniors, and one of two remaining on the field, Gebert understands the need to set an example.
“On the field, I have to provide direction for the younger players,” she said. “I have to show them that we can play well together,”
Down 8-7 early in the second half, the Wildcats scored five of the final six goals. Gebert forced an 8-8 tie less than five minutes into the half.
“Maddie is a talented gritty player with a strong shot and good stick skills,” Tornetta said.
Caroline Steller finished with team-high five goals for the Golden Bears. Lauren Thomas and MaryCate Markey combined for 11 saves.
Owen J. Roberts 12, Merion Mercy 9
Merion Mercy 7 2 – 9
OJ Roberts 7 5 – 12
Owen J. Roberts
Anna Dempsey 3g 2a
Maddie Gebert 4g
Frankie Carroll 2g 1a
Eloise Gebert 2a
Kelsey Kilgallon 2g
Anna Lavelle 1g
Claire Hampton 8 saves
Merion Mercy
Caroline Steller 5g
Kaely Kyle 1g
Allie Scannapieco 1g
Amelia Piccone 1g.
Lauren Thomas 5 saves
MaryCate Markey 6 saves