Defense remains strong for Panthers

The Mt. Pleasant girls? soccer team that went 6-0 in the conference last season returns a solid defense and key offensive players, but will look to rebuild midfield after graduation losses.

Last year, the Panther defense allowed only 21 goals in 19 matches. Junior keeper Lauren Hillman, who recorded six shutouts, returns for another season, along with junior Kathryn Chabal ? who earned all-conference honorable mention. They are joined on defense by senior Hannah LeBlanc and juniors Mila Argueta, Linzie Hood and Megan Schneider.

Meanwhile, the Panther offense, which scored 48 goals last season, returns junior Holly Long, the leading scorer, and sophomore Erin Watt, the second leading scorer. Senior forward Florencia Leunis also takes the field again this season.

?We have experience, and we have great numbers for the program,? Coach Ed Chabal said.

However, the team did lose a few key players from last season, including Sarah Pieper, the 2011 SEC Player of the Year.

As a result, the Panthers have to do some rebuilding, and most of that rebuilding will be at midfield.

Chabal expects some of the juniors to step up to fill the gaps: Amber Hainline, Alyssah Hoyle, Allie Liechty and Madison Pullis were cited as newcomers who will likely play a key roles as midfielders.

The team begins its season on Tuesday, April 3, when it hosts Centerville at East Lake Park. The match starts at 4 p.m.