Wahlert, heat wear down Panthers in regionals

     The hot, humid weather at Dubuque Wahlert’s Steele Field gave the Monticello High School girls soccer team a chance to use multiple players, but didn’t help the Panthers on the scoreboard.

     Wahlert scored seven first half goals on the way to a 10-0 victory in the first round of the Class 1A regional tournament, putting an end to the Panthers’ season.

     “With the weather conditions the way they were, we were able to play all our athletes in this match,” Monticello coach Bruce Feuling said. “Even with the additional water breaks midway through the halves, the weather took its toll on the players.”

     The skill of the Golden Eagles also played a big role.

     “Wahlert used some precise passes, high crosses and accurate shots to take the 7-0 lead into the half,” Feuling said.

     Wahlert also stifled the Panthers’ offense, holding it to one shot attempt in the match, by Jordan Lorenzen.

     “Our offense was only able to mount a few challenges throughout the match, and we were not able to get a good shot on goal,” the coach said.

     Cassie Gillmore played in goal for Monticello, making 12 saves. She is one of four seniors on the team who have now graduated. The others are Skyler Postel, Shelbie Reyhons and Katie Schmerbach.

     “We thank them for their dedication to the team and wish them well as they begin their after-high school adventure,” Feuling said.

     The Panthers finished with a 1-13 record.