Last Thursday, Wilson fell to Exeter, allowing the Eagles to take sole possession of first place in Division I in the Berks Girls Soccer League.
The Bulldogs responded on Tuesday night, defeating Twin Valley 1-0 in a Berks I-II game at Gurski Stadium.
“We had a bit of a slump against Exeter,” Wilson senior Alexa Kairis said. “We brought back the energy.”
Wilson (2-1-1 Berks I, 6-2-1) controlled possession and played stifling defense, holding the Raiders to just two shots. Tuesday marked just the second time Twin Valley (1-2 Berks II, 7-2) has been shut out this season.
“Fantastic defensive effort,” Bulldogs coach Tim Fick said. “Our team defense was probably the best we’ve had all season.”
Junior Angelina Rodriguez scored the game’s lone goal in the 19th minute with a header off a corner kick. Senior Lily McCausland took the corner kick and was credited with the assist.
“This is huge,” Fick said. “This was showing that we can beat a good team.”
Wilson started the season 4-1 but entered Tuesday’s matchup with just one victory in its last three games. In addition to the loss to the Eagles, the Bulldogs played to a draw with Gov. Mifflin.
“Now that we picked up our motivation, I feel like now we’re getting our groove,” junior Brieana Sheaffer said. “We all want to win now.”
Sheaffer and Kairis, both forwards, are tied for the team lead with four goals and two assists apiece. Sheaffer scored three goals in a win over Northern Lebanon early in the regular season.
“Those two are doing fantastic together,” Fick said. “They’re creating good chances.”
Sheaffer and Kairis have shared the field on more of a regular basis this season, which has led to improved chemistry between the two teammates.
“We have learned to connect,” Kairis said. “I have my speed, she has her skill.”
While Wilson has a dynamic duo on offense, the Bulldogs remain just as focused on playing their trademark defense. They have not allowed a goal in five of their six victories this season.
“If the other team doesn’t score, you can’t lose,” Fick said. “We’re a much more possession-oriented team this year.”
