JACKSONVILLE — In a tense showdown at the Illinois College Supersectional, Belleville Althoff's Tyler Pollock stepped up when it mattered most, securing a spot in the Class 2A state semifinals with a decisive penalty kick. The sophomore midfielder's successful shot concluded a dramatic 4-2 victory in the penalty shootout against Chatham Glenwood on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024.

The match featured a comeback by Althoff, who faced a 2-0 deficit before rallying to tie the game. The Crusaders will advance to face Lemont at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 8, 2024, in Hoffman Estates, marking their third trip to the state finals in four years, though it is their first appearance in IHSA Class 2A state.

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The match began with Glenwood taking the lead, as Luke Baxter scored off a Lucas Smith throw-in, giving the Titans a 1-0 advantage at halftime.

Glenwood extended its lead to 2-0 with a goal from senior Miles Calderon early in the second half. However, Althoff responded quickly, beginning their comeback with an own goal that stemmed from a Nate Pitre free kick, which came less than a minute after Calderon's goal.

With this victory, Althoff improved its record to 24-4, while Chatham Glenwood concluded its season with a record of 19-6-3.

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