You’ve undoubtedly heard it before. But it is so profound that it bears repeating.

Offense puts fans in the stands. But defense wins championships.

The Palmyra field hockey team is marching towards a fourth championship of the fall, and it is the defensive play of Carli Herman that is showing the way.

This week, the senior captain played a huge role in two important Cougar wins – both shutouts. Herman was the defensive catalyst, as Palmyra opened play in the state tournament with a 2-0 white washing of Owen J. Roberts on Tuesday, and then a 3-0 quarterfinal blanking of rival Lower Dauphin on Saturday afternoon.

The triumphs propelled Palmyra into the final four of the PIAA Class AAA playoffs.

With Herman calling the shots and spearheading the effort, the Cougar defense barely allowed their opponents inside their circle, much less to attempt many shots on goal. Herman, who has committed to play field hockey at the next level, is a heady defender who relies on a long reach, toughness and superior stick skills.

On its way to District Three, Mid-Penn Conference and Keystone Division titles this fall, the Palmyra defense has surrendered less than a half-a-goal per game.

 – Jeff Falk