Alleman overturns Mendota lead to win supersectional

Alleman defeated Mendota 4-3 on Monday night in Chillicothe, ending the Trojans' run for a third consecutive IHSA Class 1A state tournament berth. The Pioneers erased a three-goal deficit to advance to the state semifinals in the IVC Supersectional A match.

Mendota took control early in the 16th minute when Isaac Diaz scored on a solo effort from the left side. Less than 25 seconds later, Diaz passed to Cesar Casas, who extended the lead to 2-0. Omar Nanez added a third goal on a free kick with 11:45 remaining in the first half, putting the Trojans ahead 3-0.

Alleman began its comeback in the closing minutes of the first half. Jack Wendt scored on a free kick with 7:03 left, and Anthony Ramirez added a goal in a scramble with 1:55 remaining, narrowing the gap to 3-2 at halftime. Coach Nick Meyers said the two late goals swung the momentum to the Pioneers.

Wendt scored the equalizer with 26:07 left in the game. Anthony Ramirez, who entered the match late in the second half, scored the game-winner by booting in a cross with 9:05 remaining. Mendota recorded three shots on goal in the second half, including a one-on-one chance for Daniel Garcia that Alleman goalkeeper Zach Dieterich saved.

Meyers noted that his team shifted to a defensive posture in the second half to protect the lead but struggled to maintain possession after the tie. He credited Alleman for making adjustments that limited Mendota's effectiveness on the left side, where Diaz and Casas had thrived in the first half.

The Trojans finish the season with a 21-6-1 record, securing their eighth consecutive regional title and third straight sectional championship. The team is losing seven seniors, including top career scorers Casas and Diaz. Meyers praised the senior class for setting an example of team chemistry and offseason dedication for younger players.

Alleman, which finishes 18-5-1, will play Coal City (16-7) in the state semifinals at 7:30 p.m. Thursday in Rockford.