By Eric Frantz for the Dayton Daily News

SPRINGBORO | Heading into the girls soccer season, questions were plentiful at Springboro.

The Panthers, fresh off a 12-6-2 season, had to replace their entire defensive backfield. The lone returner, junior Hannah Thompson, was lost to a knee injury in Boro's final scrimmage against Centerville. In goal, sophomore Mallory Manoni was taking over for Kent State recruit Kris Nelson.

After 13 games, Boro's questions have turned into concern for the opposition.

Currently 11-2 and 10-0 in the Mid-Miami League, the Panthers are riding a stout defense to what they hope is the school's first MML title in coach David Callahan's four years. Springboro has scored 46 goals while allowing just three.

"Yeah, and one of the goals was an own-goal," Callahan said, laughing. "Against Butler there was a direct kick that one of our players miss-hit and it went in. Without that we've surrendered just two goals."

Springboro's domination on defense is a trend that is being repeated throughout the area. A look at other local powers and it's easy to see the top teams are stingy.

Beavercreek, ranked No. 1 in the Miami Valley Coaches Division I poll, had allowed four goals in 12 games heading into Wednesday's contest with Centerville. The Elks had allowed four goals in 12 games.

Wayne, 10-2 prior to Wednesday's game with Xenia (9-1-2), had given up just five goals, while the Bucs had allowed eight. Other area heavyweights Tippecanoe and Northmont had surrendered seven and nine goals entering the week.

In D-II, three of the area's top four teams — Alter, Northwestern and Valley View — have each allowed 10 goals. The fourth, Monroe, has given up 11.

No defensive display, though, is more unexpected than Boro's.

"We have a lot of people pitching in," Callahan said. "I think our team chemistry and camaraderie has made the difference and there are just a lot of people helping out."

In goal, Manoni has shined with 11 shutouts. Callahan said Nelson's coddling last year helped.

"Kris really spent a lot of personal time with Mallory last year because she knew she was going to be the one taking over the reigns," Callahan said. "That has made a big difference."

In addition, Callahan said junior Lauren McCormick has excelled as a replacement for Thompson. Senior midfielder Machkenzie Holznecht and junior stopper Kim Rychlewski have also helped.

Offensively, Boro is paced by sophomore midfielder Kyriss Chelsie who leads the team in goals (10) and assists (8). A pair of forwards — junior Nicole Drew and sophomore Brittany Messle — each have five goals.

Tuesday the Panthers get a stiff test when they host Carroll in what is likely the MML title game. Both teams enter 10-0. Boro has finished second in the MML behind the Patriots (10-0-3) two years in a row.

"We're going to have to play together across the board," Callahan said. "Of course, we're also going to have to play great defense."

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