Chazy returns to state final for first time since 2011

HOMER | Chazy earned its first NYSPHSAA Class D girls soccer state final berth since 2011 on Saturday, defeating Section II champion Fort Ann, 2-0, in a semifinal defined by defensive resolve and timely scoring. The Eagles (13-5-3) will face Section III's Cincinnatus at 10 a.m. Sunday at Homer High School with a chance to capture the program's fourth state title and first in 14 years. Chazy broke through late in the first half after weathering extended Fort Ann possession and a point-blank save from goalkeeper Calleigh Clark. With 1:44 remaining, Marin Juneau drove down the right flank and sent a low cross into the box, where Juliana Inzunza charged through a challenge and knocked in the opener. "Our first goal late in the half was a great cross away from the goalie by Marin and Juliana really put herself in a good spot to poke one past the goalie," Chazy head coach John Tregan said. "Their goalie is very good and she came out, but Juliana really sold out for the goal. Great ball by Marin, but a really good individual effort by Juliana to go finish." Fort Ann (14-6) controlled stretches of the first half behind standout midfielder Olivia Winchell, who repeatedly directed play through the center of the field. Tregan said neutralizing her influence was a priority. "We knew going in Fort Ann was so similar to us, so we were excited to get into a competitive game," Tregan said. "They have a very talented player in the midfield in Olivia Winchell, and she does a great job of just making the game go through her. We tried to take her out of the game defensively, but really we had no answer for her." Chazy's back line held firm regardless, with defenders Peyton Turek, Gwyn Compeau, Stephanie Barriere, Avery Parker, Karina Kalvaitis and Aubrey Bechard clearing repeated threats. Clark finished with five saves, including her six-yard stop on Kendyll Burch late in the half. "As we had done all year, we defended well, heading so many balls out," Tregan said. "As I've said all year, we aren't exactly the prettiest, but we find a way to win. I feel we have fully embraced what we can and can't do and find a way to hang around in the game. Aubrey Bechard was really good again for us in the back today." With Fort Ann pushing numbers forward in the final minutes, the Eagles struck again on a clearance that turned into an empty-net opportunity. After Turek headed a ball out of the defensive third, Juneau collected the loose ball near midfield, beat a defender and lofted home the insurance goal from 40 yards with 39 seconds left. Chazy managed just two shots but converted both, while Fort Ann outshot the Eagles 5-2. Clark earned the shutout. The victory sends Chazy back to the state title stage for the first time since winning it all in 2011.

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Chazy returns to state final for first time since 2011

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