At Howland, Penobscot Valley escaped with a 1-0 win over the visiting Penquis Patriots. As it was the last home game for the Howlers, Seniors Cole Moulton (videographer), Brad McKechnie, Elijah Wood, Bradon Blish, and Grant Kidon were recognized before the game. During the first half, the teams were deadlocked for the first 34 minutes. In this time, Penobscot Valley had some close opportunities, including a Reece Carter shot that deflected off the left post, but they couldn’t find the back of the net. Penquis’ best opportunities came on quick counter-attacks. Finally with about six minutes before half-time, Bradon Blish chipped a ball from mid-field to just inside the 18. Patriot keeper Camron Bailey came out to challenge the 50/50 ball with Howler Grant Kidon. As they went up for it, the ball grazed Bailey’s hands and went behind him, where Kidon quickly fired and scored into the empty net.
The score remained 1-0 for the rest of the game. Both teams had some promising opportunities. Penquis’ best opportunities came late in the game, when they shifted Jeremy Martin and Camron Bailey toward the front to create a strong attack. The defense was excellent on both sides of the field during this game.
The Howler’s Elijah Wood, who along with his defense recorded their 5th straight shutout, saved all six shots he saw. Camron Bailey and Grady Atkinson combined to stop 11 of 19 shots for the Patriots. Penquis drops to 3-10 and will travel to Mattanawcook on Tuesday, where they hope to keep their playoff chances alive. Penobscot Valley improves to 12-1 and sits near the top of class D. They will travel to Searsport on Tuesday for their last game of the season.
