Lady Wildcats Push Mifflinburg to Overtime

MILL HALL – The Central Mountain Lady Wildcats welcomed the Mifflinburg Area Wildcats to Malinak Stadium on Tuesday evening for a PHAC league matchup. Despite a strong effort, the Wildcats fell in overtime, 2–1.

Mifflinburg opened the scoring in the first half and carried a one-goal advantage into halftime. The home side responded after the break with improved play and determination.

“After the break, Central Mountain adjusted its tactics, creating some tactical field awareness and formation to better match Mifflinburg and look for phases of play to change the outcome of the game,” head coach Ryan Veltri said. “The Lady Wildcats weathered an early push from the visitors and began to shift momentum. With improved positioning and pressure, Central Mountain forced Mifflinburg to drop back, opening up attacking opportunities for the home side. A couple of shots on goal, one that almost cleared the goalkeeper proved the home side wasn’t going to throw in the towel.”

The breakthrough came midway through the second half when the ball was played into Leah Karstetter’s feet, who linked up with Lily McGonigal. Driving forward under defensive pressure, McGonigal slotted the ball past the keeper to tie the game at 1–1.

The match moved into overtime, but with three minutes left in the first extra period, Mifflinburg converted the game-winner to escape with a 2–1 victory.

Veltri noted the progress his team continues to show. “Despite the disappointing result, progress for the Lady Wildcats is evident. Last season, Mifflinburg defeated Central Mountain by a 6–0 margin. On Tuesday, the Wildcats not only stayed level for much of the match but also showcased the growth of their young roster, at times fielding five freshmen — three on the back line. The Lady Wildcats may not have gotten the result they wanted, but they continue to build experience, unity, and belief in a promising future.”

He added that the team’s attitude was recognized beyond the sidelines. “While the loss stung, the grit, resilience, and positive energy of the team left an impression. Following the match, the referee offered high praise as he complimented the Lady Wildcat soccer program and how they have dealt with adversity this season, one that proved we are the most Dynamic!”