LANCASTER, PA - Penn State Berks secured a 2-1 victory over Lancaster Bible College on Saturday at Donald H. Funk Field in the United East Championship Tournament Quarterfinal. The Nittany Lions avenged their 2-1 defeat from earlier this season by scoring both goals in the first half and holding off a second-half surge from the Chargers.

The first half started with Berks establishing an early advantage over Lancaster Bible. The Nittany Lions created several early scoring oppertunties in the opening minutes, earning a corner kick in the 8th minute. Devon Deery took the corner, serving a perfect kick into the box, finding the head Maya Dolan. Dolan headed the ball into the back of the net, giving Berks the early lead. The Nittany Lions continued to created scoring chances, getting numbers into the offensive end. In the 34th minute, Deery sent another ball toward the box, this time from just across midfield. Faith Wavershak took a touch and then blasted a shot into the back of the net, giving the Nittany Lions a 2-0 advantage. Sophia Gonzalez made a crucial save in the 32nd minute, preserving the clean sheet. Despite Lancaster Bible's attempts to respond, Penn State Berks maintained control through effective defense and strategic play. The half closed with Penn State Berks leading 2-0.

The second period commenced with the Chargers attempting to close the gap. Berks' goalkeeper, Gonzalez, was pivotal early on, making crucial saves against shots from Janae Bergey and Isabella Eufemia, maintaining the team's advantage.Despite continued pressure from Lancaster Bible, who found the net in the 64th minute through Leah Iman, assisted by Bergey, the Nittany Lions held firm. Isabelle Wilkes had a notable shot on goal at the 62nd minute, but it was saved by Marcy Foltz. The Chargers put a ton of pressure on Berks in the final 10 minutes, but their defensive backline was up for the challenge. Berks secured the 2-1 victory, advancing in the United East Championship Tournament. 

Gonzalez made five saves, contributing significantly to the team's defensive efforts. Dolan scored one goal, providing an offensive boost with two total shots, one of which was on target. Wavershak scored the game-winning goal, successfully converting both of her shots on goal. Deery assisted on two goals, facilitating scoring opportunities for her teammates.

WHO'S NEXT
The Nittany Lions have advanced to the United East Championship Tournament Semifinals on Tuesday, Nov. 4, when they travel to face #1 Penn State Harrisburg. 

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