Perryville pushed one of the top teams in the St. Louis area to the limit, but Waterloo (Ill.) remained unbeaten with a 2-1 victory on April 10 at The Bank of Missouri Soccer Complex in Perryville.
The Lady Pirates (5-2) matched the intensity of the visiting Lady Bulldogs (10- 0) throughout the match, trailing just 1-1 at halftime before Waterloo netted the go-ahead goal in the second half.
Maysa Schindler scored Perryville’s lone goal, with Ava Ernst picking up the assist. Waterloo’s Megan Young accounted for both goals, while Morgan Boyer added 2 assists.
Perryville coach Dwayne Hadler said his team proved it could compete with one of the area’s elite programs.
“This is one of the best teams in the St. Louis area,” Hadler said. “We had our chances to tie or even win the game, and that says a lot about these girls.”
Waterloo’s defense made finishing chances difficult, consistently stepping in to disrupt shots and limit clean looks on goal.
“Their fullbacks did a great job of preventing really good shots,” Hadler said. “And when we did get through, their keeper was there to stop it.”
Despite the loss, Perryville’s defensive effort stood out against a high-powered Waterloo attack. The Lady Pirates limited quality chances and kept the game within reach throughout.
“Our defense played really well,” Hadler said. “They have some of the best forwards in the area, and we limited their opportunities.”
Lillian Cowell recorded the loss in goal, allowing 2 goals while keeping Perryville in position to challenge late.
Hadler also highlighted the play of fullbacks Reese Behrle and Charli Gerler, who were tasked with slowing down Waterloo’s dangerous attack.
“Those two did an exceptional job,” Hadler said. “We knew they were going to be challenged, and they really stepped up."
Waterloo’s physical defensive style also posed challenges, as the Lady Bulldogs consistently positioned themselves well to disrupt possession.
“They’re very good at defending with their bodies,” Hadler said. “They know what they’re doing defensively.”
Although the result didn’t go their way, the Lady Pirates showed they can compete with top-tier competition, creating scoring chances and maintaining defensive discipline against an undefeated opponent.
