The goal in soccer is obvious: put the ball in the net. But that statement carries greater weight for Kenmore West heading into today’s Section VI Class AA semifinal match at Clarence.
The third-seeded Blue Devils (14-2) haven’t had trouble outshooting their opponents this fall, but at times, they have struggled to score off those chances. That’s got to change in order to upset No. 2 Clarence (12-4-1) and return to the finals. Ken West won the sectional title in 2007.
The winner of today’s semifinal will play either Orchard Park or Williamsville North Saturday at Amherst High School.
“We’ve been outshooting these other teams but we need to put some more balls in the net,” said Ken West coach Jen Gilham. “It’s crucial not only that they shoot but to get it on target, and we’re almost there. The girls are doing a good job. It’s going to be a very physical game.”
Ken West’s offense is led by sophomore Lexi Panepinto, who has 20 goals and eight assists this season. Her 48 points are the second-most in Section VI Class AA. Not far behind is sister Jenna Panepinto, who has 36 points on nine goals and 18 assists. She scored the game-winner in last week’s quarterfinal against Hamburg.
“Both have had phenomenal seasons, and they knew when Jenna Rickan and Cristina Ippolito graduated that they had to step up,” Gilham said of the Panepintos. “They’ve done an outstanding job filing those rolls.”
The Blue Devils also will be relying on forwards and captains Charlotte Clark and Caitlyn Donahue.
West’s defensive play will need to be strong, ensuring that Clarence doesn’t get anything down the middle, Gilham said. Kirsty Webb has been a solid goalkeeper for the Blue Devils.
“She’s been outstanding,” Gilham said. “She’s made some big saves in crucial times.”
The defending Class AA champion Red Devils have several solid forwards who can shoot from just about anywhere. Their attack is led by second-team All-Western New York selection Alexa Krebs, a fourth-year varsity player who has 11 goals and six assists this fall, and Nicole Lauricella (11 goals, nine assists).
Gilham said her leaders are ready for the challenge.
“We talked about that over and over again. I said, ‘Your efforts are going to predict how well and how far we go,’” Gilham said. “They’re taking on that role and they’re ready to go.”
Contact reporter David J. Hill at 693-1000, ext. 115.
GAME DAY
• WHO: 3-Kenmore West (14-2) vs. 2-Clarence (12-4-1)
• WHAT: Section VI Class AA girls soccer semifinal
• WHERE: Clarence High School, 2 p.m.
• ON THE LINE: Winner advances to sectional final Saturday.
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DOUG BENZ/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
November 2, 2009
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