SPASH edges Wisconsin Rapids in 1-0 conference victory

Metro Wire Staff

WISCONSIN RAPIDS — Amelia Castleberg scored the lone goal and Sophia Smith delivered a clutch penalty kick save as SPASH earned a 1-0 road win over Wisconsin Rapids in a Wisconsin Valley Conference matchup Thursday night.

Castleberg found the net off an assist from Ellie Czaikowski, while Smith recorded nine saves to secure the shutout for the Panthers, including a crucial stop on a penalty kick attempt by the Red Raiders.

“It was a great game between two very evenly matched teams in which the result could have gone either way,” said SPASH head coach Bill Loss. “Both teams hit the post multiple times. Very proud of our effort tonight. It wasn’t always pretty, but we made plays when we needed to.”

Loss credited Smith’s save and Castleberg’s determination as game-changing moments. “Sophia’s penalty kick save and Amelia just refused to be denied on her goal,” he said. “I am very proud of the girls and their development over the last three weeks.”

After opening the season 1-4, SPASH has now won five of its last six matches to improve to 6-5 overall and 4-1 in the WVC.

The Panthers return to action Tuesday when they host D.C. Everest at 7:30 p.m. at Goerke Field.