BELCHERTOWN — Aubrey Klingensmith scored the game-winning goal in penalty kicks to send the Belchertown girls soccer team past Dedham, 1-0, in the MIAA Division 3 Round of 16 on Thursday.
Neither team managed to break through across 80 minutes of regulation and 20 minutes of overtime, yet the Orioles went 4-for-5 in penalty kicks to advance to the Round of 8.
“It’s a great way to win, but a horrible way to lose,” Belchertown head coach Kyle Thibeault said. “I wish we could just keep playing overtime honestly until someone won, but that’s part of the game. For us, it’s a good win.
“I thought we played well in spurts, played our game, and then other times we were a little more defensive-minded and dealing with their counter attacks,” Thibeault added. “Like I told the girls, it doesn’t matter what team we play, doesn’t matter what number is next to their name, everyone is good.”
The sixth-seeded Orioles appeared on the verge of elimination several times during the first overtime period as the No. 11 Maurauders created consecutive grade-A scoring chances.
First, Belchertown goalie Ava Stelmekos made a clutch save on a Dedham attacker who earned a scoring opportunity within minutes of the extra frame beginning. Then shortly after, a Maurauder got another clean look within prime real estate, but missed the net with the shot.
Finally, Orioles’ defender Avery Cooper chased down a Dedham attacker who looked destined for a breakaway and nullified the chance, taking over possession for Belchertown.
Stelmekos’ stop and Cooper’s determination signified the Orioles’ ability to step up in the most important moments.
“I try to tell any goaltender I have, during games you have to make the normal saves, if you will, and one or two big saves to keep us in close games against good teams, Thibeault said.
“I thought our defense played really well [Thursday] as a whole,” Thibeault continued. “Avery Cooper in the back really came up big a couple of times.”
Once it came time for penalty kicks, Belchertown received goals from Eleanor Mazzaferro, Isabella Vozzella, Morghan Litz and Klingensmith. Dedham scored twice, but clanked the crossbar and post, leading to its downfall.
The Orioles will play No. 3 Dover-Sherborn in the Round of 8 on Saturday.
Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m.
Div. 4
Hampshire 3, Ipswich 2 — A 13-round shootout decided this Round of 16 marathon as the Raiders won 13-12 in penalty kicks to advance to the Round of 8.
Olivia Whittaker and Shayne Moynahan scored for sixth-seeded Hampshire in regulation, while Emilia Berrena grabbed six saves in goal for the Raiders.
Hampshire will take on No. 3 Douglas next on Saturday at noon.
Div. 5
Whitinsville-Christian 2, Smith Voc 0 — The Vikings were held off the board in their season-ending defeat.
Smith Voc concluded the year 14-5-0 overall.
David Prouty 2, Hopkins 1 — The No. 4 Golden Hawks were grounded by the visiting 13th-seed in penalty kicks.
Ephie Vissas scored in regulation, which counted as her 100th career point.
Hopkins finished the season 16-4-1.
