SOUTH DAYTON — The Pine Valley Panthers opened up their 2018 season against Franklinville, although one could never tell it was their first game as the Panthers dominated the field early with two early goals en route to a 3-0 victory on Tuesday night.

Ryan Snyder got the hosts on the board 53 seconds into the game from a perfectly placed cross from freshman Wayne Libby. Four minutes later, Pine Valley struck again with a solid through ball from Dawson Chase which allowed Libby to place the ball in the back of the net.

“We had a strong start, which set the tone for the game,” said Pine Valley co-coach David Pihlblad. “We had thorough passes, which allowed us to keep possession of the ball and it gave us some great scoring opportunities.”

During the middle portion of the game, the ball primarily stayed in the midfield with neither team controlling the possession and dictating the game. The Panthers took a 2-0 lead into halftime.

According to Pihlblad, “We saw moments of great play early, but we need to piece the whole game together. We came out with high intensity early, but will need to continue with that moving forward.”

Pine Valley would score their third goal of the game in the 82nd minute of the game as Chase scored on a pass into the box from Jesse Jenkins.

“That was a beautiful goal that was scored,” stated Pihlblad. “This shows what the boys are capable of doing as Dawson was able to connect on that pass with multiple defenders around him.”

Pine Valley placed 17 shots on Franklinville connecting on three. Franklinville got their lone shot on goal in the first half that goalie Makiah Snyder was easily able to come up with. “Our defense was great,” Pihlblad added. “We were in good position and worked well together to limit their opportunities in our end.”

Pine Valley is back in action on Friday against Falconer.

“Overall, it was a good game today,” said Pihlblad. “Both teams had a difficult time with the heat. It was probably one of the hottest games these teams played in, but they both played hard in these conditions. I am pleased with how we played today, but would need to improve moving forward as I am sure that both teams will.”