DSHA Dashers Dart Past Kimberly By Scoring 3

Post-match interview with DSHA defender Brailey Baxter

DSHA just proved that talent can outrun inexperience with their 3-0 win over #4-seeded Kimberly. Despite not starting any seniors, this team played as if they’re seasoned veterans stepping out for another state tournament. Of course, no starter from this year’s squad has played in a state match before, but that didn’t stop this group from acting like they have.

Right from kickoff, this team came out firing. They dominated possession in Kimberly’s half and quickly regained the ball once they lost it. After winning a free-kick outside the penalty area, sophomore forward Sarah McElhern found the back of the net in the 21st minute. Just 10 minutes later, freshman Reese Roethe hit a one-time shot on the end of a ball from her older sister, Avery. In the second half, much of the same occurred. The third goal of the game came rather quickly as in the 50th minute, Izzy Burris scored off a header.

The Dashers have been known this season to utilize set-pieces to their advantage. This game was no different. The first and third goals came off a free-kick and corner kick respectively. When looking back to their sectional final match against Arrowhead, their first goal in that game was scored off a corner kick.

This team has weapons all-around the pitch to be able to hurt you from anywhere. This includes junior defender Brailey Baxter, who uses her height and strength to her advantage. This was especially prevalent as both her assists this match came from headers off of set pieces. Teams simply cannot find a way to defend her from dead-ball situations.

As dominant as this performance was, they’ll have to face a much stronger opponent in the final. Four-time defending champions Muskego are next in the Dashers path to a state title. These two will meet in the WIAA D1 state championship on Saturday, at 1:30pm.