Bennington Girls Soccer Season Ends in Heartbreaking Shootout Loss to Elkhorn North

May 9, 2026

2–4 minutes

By Marisa Dawson

A young female soccer goalkeeper in an orange jersey dives to save a soccer ball during a game, with the goal net in the foreground. — *Rilynn Mercer*

The Bennington Badgers girls soccer team saw their 2026 season come to a close on Tuesday night, May 5, as they fell to rival Elkhorn North in a B-1 district semifinal match that went to penalties after a scoreless draw. The game, played at home, ended 0-0 in regulation before Elkhorn North prevailed 1-0 in the shootout.

Bennington mounted a strong offensive effort, firing off 11 shots throughout the contest. Freshman goalkeeper Rilynn Mercer stood tall in net, making six saves to keep the game level and give her team a chance. Despite the defensive solidity and attacking pressure, the Badgers could not find the back of the net against a well-coached Elkhorn North side.

A soccer player in a black uniform sprinting with the ball during a game, while teammates and spectators in the background watch. The player wears a captain's armband. — *Ericka Matthews (left) & Claire Miller (right)*

Head Coach Ed Anibal reflected on the emotional end to the campaign, particularly for the senior class. “There’s not many words,” he said. “This is such a rewarding group of young ladies. I hate for the season to end this way. I mean, it’s very emotional for seniors, obviously. It’s just probably one of the best groups of players I’ve ever coached- good listeners, great, enthusiastic energy every single game.”

The matchup carried extra weight as a rematch. Earlier in the season, Bennington had lost to Elkhorn North 3-1, but the Badgers pushed the Wolves to the limit this time in what proved to be their toughest test. Coach Anibal had anticipated the challenge. “Elkhorn North is a well-coached team and they’re always tough,” he noted. “It’s not quite a rivalry game, but they treat it like it. And our girls give a 100% effort every single time. I knew once I saw the brackets that this was going to be our toughest game.”

A soccer match in progress with a player in a black jersey kicking the ball while two defenders in white jerseys attempt to block the play. A third player in the background is monitoring the action. — *Lucy Lampe*

The Badgers finished the season with a 9-8 overall record. Coach Anibal praised his players’ commitment and effort across all 17 games. “They couldn’t have left any more on the field. They did a good job all season,” he said.

In his message to the team afterward, the coaches emphasized pride in their accomplishments and bigger priorities beyond the field. “I’m very proud of the way they played all season, not just tonight. Keep their heads up for the seniors. Good luck,” Anibal stated. He highlighted seniors Rihanna Rodriguez and Autumn Christensen, who will continue their soccer careers in college, while noting the rest of the group has strong academic and career paths ahead.

A soccer game in progress with four female players, two in black jerseys and two in white jerseys, competing for the ball on a grassy field. — *Rihanna Rodriguez*

Anibal noted that he always emphasizes family and academics first. However, he still highlighted how well the team has handled the pressure this season. “It‘s a great group of soccer players, fantastic students and just good people all around,” he said. “I’m just going to reinforce that, hey, this is just one little blip in your career. You have bigger things, better things that come along. This is just one minor part of it.”

The loss marks the end of a resilient season for the Bennington girls, characterized by strong team chemistry, consistent effort, and growth despite some tough late-season results. While the final outcome was disappointing, the foundation laid by this group promises bright futures both on and off the pitch. The team looks forward to being back on the field again next year competing at the Class A level.