Melani Garcia ignited Great Bend’s scoring burst with the Panthers’ first goal.
Her teammates followed suit as the Panthers scored five first-half goals for a 5-0 season-opening soccer victory over Wichita Independent Tuesday at Cavanaugh Field.
The Panthers scored all five goals fueled by a 30-mile per hour southeasterly wind.
Panthers Kaily Griffith, Alondra Garcia, Angela Enriquez and Keely Ireland also scored first-half goals. Ireland and Monica Hernandez each had assists.
Alondra Garcia helped spark the Panthers with several solid corner kicks.
Great Bend coach Gustavo Prieto was pleased by how well the Panthers pressured Independent’s defense in the first half.
“Playing with the wind was a big advantage. We put good pressure on them and played aggressive soccer,” Prieto said. “We won the 50-50 balls and wanted the girls to play aggressive and try and make shots. Melani’s first shot from a midfielder was a goal. Alondra Garcia has a really strong leg.”
Independent put together a solid second half in a scoreless 40 minutes. Lea Coccetella, Georgia Swortwood and Kryslyn Henderson each had good scoring opportunities denied.
Alma Garay led the Panthers’ backline defense that was helped by goalie Yamille Hernandez and defenders Abby McKinney, Alejandra Garcia and Valeria Castillo.
“We have gained experience and are playing better than last year,” Prieto said. “I believe we have one of the stronger defenses in the Western Athletic Conference.”
Independent coach Sarah Calvin said her team calmed down and executed better the second half. The teams split possession time evenly the second half.
“We moved better the second half and played better together. We started to connect on offense,” Calvin said.