Panther sophomore Zach Nicholas pulls a move on a Nazareth defender.
With a new coach guiding the way, the Saucon Valley boys high school soccer team is getting a ton of extra, off-season work in the Lehigh Valley Summer Soccer League that takes place on Monday and Wednesday evenings at Lehigh University.
Coach Houghton’s Panthers squared off against the Nazareth Blue Eagles on Wednesday night in a battle for 1st place in Group A of the Men’s Junior Division. Both teams entered the contest with 4-0 records.
It was a very competitive game that was well-played and hard fought. The Panthers received early goals from Scott Grenestedt and Sean Cyphers. Saucon created multiple chances down the stretch but could not find the back of the net. The Panthers came very close to scoring a few times, but the Blue Eagles were able to hold on for a 4-2 victory.
Saucon Source was able to get out to Lehigh University and take in the action. It was a beautiful night to take in some competitive soccer. Check out some of our photos below!
Senior Scott Grenestedt takes a free kick for the Panthers.
Junior Jared Thatcher marks a Nazareth forward in the Panthers summer league matchup with the Nazareth Blue Eagles.
Saucon senior goalkeeper, Keaton Story, punts the ball away.
Saucon Valley senior Danny Austin pushes the ball upfield.
Senior Alex Christopher of Saucon Valley looking to generate more offense.
The Panthers worked to the doorstep of the Nazareth goal multiple times.
Saucon sophomore Zac Appel flashes the footskills and creates a chance for the Panthers.
Junior Jake Raven advances the ball for the Panthers.
The Panthers Zac Appel keeping the Nazareth goalkeeper busy.
Zach Nicholas gets up close and personal with the Blue Eagles as he tries to regain possession for the Panthers.
Scott Grenestedt trying to split the Nazareth defenders.
Alex Christopher takes his space in Wednesday’s match against Nazareth.
The Panthers pressed late against Nazareth but could not find the back of the goal.
With the loss to Nazareth, the Panthers dropped to 4-1 in their group. The top four teams from each group will qualify for the playoffs that are scheduled to begin on Monday, July 19.
Good Luck Panthers, the Source is with you!
