Allison Tilly Plays Key Role in Lemont’s Soccer Championship

Unexpected Hero Emerges for Lemont

Allison Tilly, a sophomore typically known for her skills as a defender, transformed an urgent situation into a memorable victory for Lemont. Facing multiple injuries, Lemont needed a goalkeeper for the sectional match. Despite never having played in the position, Tilly volunteered. Her background in basketball, volleyball, and softball gave her confidence. ‘I know I can do it,’ Tilly said. ‘If nobody else was going to do it, I’d try it.’

Starting practice as a goalkeeper on Monday, Tilly showcased remarkable progress. By Friday night, she not only performed but excelled, making eight crucial saves to help Lemont secure a 2-1 win. Her efforts in the Class 2A Providence Sectional championship were lauded as heroic.

Key Performances and Milestones

Alongside Tilly, Gabriela Kuruc contributed significantly by scoring both goals for Lemont. Madison Weil provided an assist, helping the team win its first sectional title since 2018. Lemont, the second seed at 22-1-1, is now set to play Geneva in the Kankakee Supersectional.

Longtime coach Rick Prangen is retiring soon. Tilly acknowledged the importance of making this last season memorable for him. ‘We want to keep it going,’ she stated. On Monday, they face Geneva, which recently won 2-0 against Plainfield Central.

Determination Leads to Success

Despite facing top-seeded Providence, Lemont held strong. Aubrey Curry scored for Providence, briefly tying the game 1-1. Kuruc quickly responded, scoring from 30 yards out, and securing the lead again.

Tilly managed pressure and performed incredibly in the final minutes, deflecting multiple scoring attempts from Providence. The coach praised her performance, noting how unreal her gameplay was at the end.

Tilly herself expressed how nerve-wracking the game was, yet she handled it with precision. In practice, overthinking was an issue, but during the game, she instinctively responded. ‘You just go and do it,’ she shared.

Celebrating Achievement and Team Effort

Kuruc expressed admiration for Tilly’s swift adaptation to the goalkeeper role, emphasizing her exceptional skills despite being normally a field player. ‘Very impressive,’ Kuruc remarked.

After the victory, assistant coach Mark Tomczak embraced Tilly, celebrating the win and her individual contribution. Tilly felt a sense of pride, both personal and for her team. ‘I’m just floating on the air,’ she stated joyfully. ‘Being able to help my team get here, it’s surreal.’