Conard fell behind to Bristol Eastern at home in West Hartford on Tuesday, but rallied for the win.

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Conard vs. Bristol Eastern girls soccer. Sept. 9, 2025.. Photo credit: Cole Schweiger

By Cole Schweiger

After starting the season with two challenging matches, Conard girls soccer team finally found the momentum they were looking for on Tuesday afternoon, delivering a frantic 2-1 comeback victory against Bristol Eastern. 

The game didn’t start in Conard’s favor, as Bristol Eastern took an early lead just 10 minutes in. Freshman Kaylee Senethong capitalized on a loose ball in the box, scoring after a rebound off Conard’s junior goalkeeper, Evelyn Black. The Lancers were up 1-0, and it was a tough pill to swallow for the Red Wolves.

Conard, however, showed composure and didn’t give up. Sophomore Caitlin Walsh emerged as a key player multiple times in the first half, creating several chances. 

Caitlin Walsh scored the first goal to tie the game. Conard vs. Bristol Eastern girls soccer. Sept. 9, 2025.. Photo credit: Cole Schweiger

In the second half, Conard amped up the pressure, and it finally paid off. With just 7:30 left on the clock, Caitlin Walsh broke through the Bristol Eastern defense, finding the back of the net to tie the game at 1-1. The comeback began from there. 

“A big momentum changer was after the first goal,” said junior captain Jacqueline Capone. “It really got our team pumped up and motivated to keep pushing hard.”

As Bristol Eastern scrambled to regain control, Conard remained focused.

Jacqueline Capone. Conard vs. Bristol Eastern girls soccer. Sept. 9, 2025.. Photo credit: Cole Schweiger

“We made sure to keep working and pressuring them,” Capone shared. “We knew if we focused on the small things, it would all come together – and luckily, it did!”

With only a few minutes left to play, Conard’s attack surged once more. Walsh unleashed a powerful shot that deflected off a defender, but senior Maddie Rodgers was in the right place at the right time, slamming home the rebound for the game-winning goal. 

“We proved that the game is never over,” Capone reflected. “No matter how much time is left, you have to keep giving it your all.”

With this win, Conard looks to carry the momentum forward as they prepare to travel to face Rocky Hill (2-1) in a league matchup on Friday. They return home on Monday to host Manchester.

Game statistics

• Caitlin Walsh – 1 goal, 1 assist
• Maddie Rodgers – 1 goal
• Evelyn Black – 7 saves, 1 goal allowed 

Conard goalie Evelyn Black. Conard vs. Bristol Eastern girls soccer. Sept. 9, 2025.. Photo credit: Cole Schweiger

Conard vs. Bristol Eastern girls soccer. Sept. 9, 2025.. Photo credit: Cole Schweiger

Paige Sweeney. Conard vs. Bristol Eastern girls soccer. Sept. 9, 2025.. Photo credit: Cole Schweiger

Jacqueline Capone. Conard vs. Bristol Eastern girls soccer. Sept. 9, 2025.. Photo credit: Cole Schweiger

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