Phantoms kick off season with a win

DE PERE – The West De Pere Phantoms kicked off their 2025 season with a 3-1 win over the Ashwaubenon Jaguars at home on Tuesday, April 1. 

Though the Jaguars held strong for the majority of the first half, an offensive press by the Phantoms eventually broke through the Jaguar defensive line. 

A cross from the corner hit right at Faith Walder’s feet for a near post tap in to give the Phantoms the lead in the 29th minute of play.

“I’m looking forward to seeing our improvement. We lost some pieces last year, so I’m looking forward to seeing who fits into those roles,” said Walder. 

However, justs two minutes later, the Jaguars responded with a retaliatory goal off of a corner kick to even the score. 

A volley into the back of the Phantoms’ net by Sylvia Dawson brought the score to an even 1-1 going into the second half.

“I liked the extra effort after the play. If there was a missed pass or a turnover, there was good recovery and if a mistake was made they fixed their mistakes,” said second year head coach Chad Johnson. 

Though the Phantoms focused on connecting passes and building out of the back, the Jaguars continued to find ways to cut off passing lanes and force turnovers. 

“Ashwaubenon did a good job defending. We had to be patient and that’s going to happen a few times this year,” said Johnson. 

Possession remained in the Jaguars’ danger zone for much of the half until a goal in the 52nd minute by Katie Neuens on an aggressive takeover in the box for a far post shot brought the Phantoms out in front again. 

In the 73rd minute, a left-footed rip by Walder inside the box brought the score to 3-1 to bring the Phantoms their first win of the season. 

The Phantoms next home game will be against Kimberly on Saturday, April 5.