Sub-state loss ends Panther season

     A strong, efficient Center Point-Urbana team put an end to the Monticello High School boys soccer season May 20, scoring a 9-1 victory over the Panthers.

     The match was a Class 1A, first round substate contest played in Center Point.

     The Stormin’ Pointers stormed to a 6-0 lead by halftime, and extended it to 9-0 before Tony Wallerich scored off a pass from Devin Kraus with 7:27 left in the game to prevent a shutout. The goal set an MHS school record for goals in a season by a Panther player; it was Wallerich’s 18^th.

     “We played well, but were not able to keep up with the pace of CP-U,” Monticello coach Phil Gilkerson said.

     The Panthers had a total of six shots on goal. Three of those were from Wallerich, while Jaeden Hanssen, Kurt Stadtmueller and Kraus each had one.

     Monticello goalkeeper Alex Fagan was kept busy; he made 28 saves.

     Monticello finished the season with a record of 5-10.

     “I am proud of how the team played this year,” Gilkerson said. “We got better every game, and that allowed us to have success this season.

     “I am proud of the senior class and I wish them all the best as they move into the next stage of their lives.”