Spring-Ford Sweeps Souderton; Methacton Stuns Lower Merion In Five Sets
Rams advance to quarterfinals while Warriors rally from two sets down to keep their season alive.
By Nour Haddad ·
Spring-Ford’s 20th consecutive victory came with a warning. The Rams defeated visiting Souderton 3-0 in the second round of the 6A district bracket, but the scoreline masks how close the contest was. Spring-Ford did not take its first lead of the match until the 20-19 mark of the opening set. The final score was 25-21, 25-14, and 25-20. The Rams, who are also the reigning state champions, enter the quarterfinals with a 21-2 record.
Coach George Fuller noted that the close play was a reality check for a team accustomed to dominance. He said Souderton exposed areas that need cleanup. The team will return to the gym on Friday to prepare for Saturday’s matchup against No. 8 Downingtown East at 12 p.m. Junior hitter Elle Sossong led the Rams with 18 kills, 13 digs, and eight service points. Marley Angelucci recorded 37 assists and 10 service points.
Methacton pulled off a major upset in the same round. The Warriors defeated No. 3 Lower Merion 3-2 in a five-set thriller. Methacton took a 2-1 set lead but lost the fourth set 21-17. In the deciding fifth set, Lower Merion built a 12-8 lead. Methacton answered with seven consecutive points to win 15-12. The Warriors now hold an 11-9 record.
Coach Alex Notaristefano told his team to focus on one match, one set, and one five-point stretch. He emphasized that the team’s league record does not reflect its talent. Methacton will play No. 6 Conestoga at noon on Saturday. A win would secure a spot in the state tournament. A loss would keep the team alive for potential playbacks. Anya Liu, Ava Wolf, and Alesha Ewing combined for 41 kills.
In girls soccer, Methacton’s season ended in a penalty shootout. West Chester Henderson defeated the Warriors 3-0 on penalties after a 0-0 draw. Methacton had two goals waved off for offsides during the match. Henderson keeper Penny Wolf saved three of Methacton’s four attempts in the shootout. Methacton finished with a school-record 18 wins and 15 shutouts. Henderson will host Council Rock North on Saturday at 11 a.m.
West Chester Rustin advanced in the 3A bracket with a 1-0 win over Upper Perkiomen. Ava Pascarella scored the only goal with about five minutes left in the first half. Upper Perkiomen finished with a 15-5 record. In boys soccer, Abington ended Spring-Ford’s season with a 4-0 win. Sam Arruda scored three goals for Abington. West Chester Henderson defeated Phoenixville 1-0 to stay alive in the 4A bracket.
Pope John Paul II lost its field hockey semifinal to New Hope-Solebury. The Panthers scored the only goal on a penalty corner. New Hope-Solebury advances to the 1A title game against Faith Christian Academy on Nov. 7. Pope John Paul II finished with a 15-5 record.
