Morton advances to Super 16 after dominant sectional victory
Claire Ceresa’s hat-trick propels Morton past Dunlap, while Notre Dame’s undefeated run ends in Class 3A
Morton High School has secured its place in the Super 16 of the Illinois High School Association girls soccer state playoffs, following a decisive victory over rival Dunlap in the Class 2A sectional championship. The win marks a significant milestone for the Potters, who improved their season record to 24-1-1 and extended their consecutive shutout streak to 19 games.
The match was defined by a clinical offensive display, particularly in the second half. Madi Greiner opened the scoring with the only goal of the first half, a strike that ultimately proved to be the game-winner. Izzy Ripka doubled the lead with 27 minutes and 35 seconds remaining, capitalising on a walk-in from the right post to make it 2-0.
Claire Ceresa then took control of the contest, scoring a hat-trick within a span of 3 minutes and 37 seconds during the final 16 minutes of play. Ceresa’s first goal came with 14 minutes and 16 seconds left, followed by a tap-in with 11 minutes and 15 remaining, and a penalty kick with 10 minutes and 39 seconds to go. The Potters finished with a commanding 4-0 victory, outscoring opponents 126-2 for the season.
In the Class 3A Normal Community Sectional, Notre Dame High School’s undefeated season came to an end with a loss to Edwardsville. The Irish, who had not suffered a regulation defeat prior to this match, were blanked by the Vikings in the title contest. Notre Dame finished the season with a record of 23-1-2, having allowed opponents to reach two goals in a game only twice.
Edwardsville secured the win with two goals from senior midfielder Anna Maxim. The result ends a strong campaign for Notre Dame, which had only allowed two or fewer goals in all but two games throughout the season. Morton will now face Waterloo in the Chatham Glenwood Supersectional, scheduled for Tuesday at 4 p.m.
