Three minutes took the premier matchup between Evanston and New Trier from a nailbiter to a big victory for the Kits.

After a pressure-filled first half that resulted in a 1-0 lead for ETHS, the girls soccer team gained control to score three more times by the end of a tense match-up against New Trier. Two goals from senior co-captain Shayna Da Silva, as well as one from junior Jocelyn Leigh, clinched the 3-0 conference victory for the Kits.

With the win, Evanston (12-1-1) protects its undefeated home record. The game began slowly for both teams, with the Trevians (13-2-1) slightly dominating possession but failing to break the Kits’ defense. A goal by Shayna Da Silva midway through the half gave ETHS an edge, but they didn’t settle for a one-goal lead.

“[The team] grew confidence as time went on,” noted head coach Stacy Salgado. “They realized that they were capable and were able to shut [New Trier] down defensively.”

Not only did the Kits—especially Mia Darer and outside back Maddie Ball—lock down their defense in the second half, but they created chances for the offense to reach the opposing box. Play became more physical, offering opportunities for set-ups and shots on goal. 

“They created chances,” says Salgado. “We put ourselves in the scoring position in different ways. From outside, from inside, from crosses, they were anticipating and were ready to go.”

Two goals within three minutes of the second half broke down New Trier’s energy and showcased Evanston’s improvement in communication and confidence throughout the season. The first came off a solo breakaway by junior Jocelyn Leigh, who staved off two defenders to shoot past New Trier’s keeper. 

For the final goal of the night, the ball was nudged by junior Sydney Ross, the Trevian goalkeeper, and finally Shayna Da Silva before finding itself in the net, after a yellow card on a New Trier defender just outside the penalty box.

A historically high-stakes pairing, the Evanston-New Trier rivalry resolved favorably for the Kits today, providing a morale boost before the tail end of the season. They face their last game in the Central Suburban League on Tuesday, May 5 at Niles West, a match Salgado looks to optimistically.

“We’re treating every opponent the same,” says Salgado. “We haven’t finished [the season] yet. But it’d be nice to close out our conference with a win.”