Article By: Megan Lukitsch

The two hour drive up to Erie for players, fans, and parents alike was absolutely worth it. Eden defeated Seneca 2-0 in their first-round round game of the PIAA State Tournament and advanced to the Quarterfinals.  

Those who made the trek to the game did not have to wait around in the cold for too long before the Warriors got on the scoreboard, with David Ryan scoring the opening goal at 22:16 in the first half. David’s goal would go on to become the game-winner. 

Jonathan Cranston solidified Eden’s victory at 4:25 of the second half by making it 2-0. “It felt good to be able to get some insurance on the game,” Jonathan said. “The guys and I all agreed the two hour trip home after a loss was not in the cards.”

The game was not only a two-hour drive for the Warriors, it was also played on Seneca’s home field rather than being at a neutral location like the previous WPIAL playoff games. “Personally I love the atmosphere at away games and Seneca’s fans didn’t disappoint,” said Jonathan, who essentially quieted the rowdy Seneca crowd with his late goal.

At the other end of the field, Anthony D’Ippolito and the Warriors defense were busy keeping Seneca’s offense as cold as the temperature at the game. “I’d say the biggest thing for me is just tracking with the flow of the game and the ball on the field and then making sure I’m active on my feet and bouncing around,” said Anthony about playing in the frigid weather. “It’s also super important to communicate with the team and stay involved verbally and that really helps me stay engaged and ready to make saves.”

After another solid defensive effort from the Warriors, Coach Barr had high praise for his senior goalkeeper and defenders in the shutout victory. “Our team has a lot of individually great players with Anthony being one especially as a captain,” he said. “The strength of any good team though is the unit over the individual. Having 4 senior defenders and a great senior goalie has been the biggest factor in keeping so many games to 1 or 2 goal affairs”

An exciting soccer season for the Warriors is not over yet. “Glad we can keep the run going,” said Jonathan Cranston. “1 down, 3 to go.”

The Warriors will play Winchestor Thurston in the PIAA State Quarterfinals on Saturday at 2pm at Norwin High School.