Gilbert Christian scored the first goal—and what a goal it was.

But Benjamin Franklin achieved a first that counted the most.

Credit Delin Peterson for helping turn the tide in Benjamin Franklin’s favor Saturday in the 3A Conference girls soccer final at Westwood High. The teams were entrenched in a scoreless battle before a couple of moments of brilliance occurred in the final 73 seconds of the first half.

It started with a right-footed wonder strike from Gilbert Christian's Caprice Chiuchiolo that curled just inside the far left post. But that spectacular moment was fleeting, because with 18 seconds left Peterson struck to help her team quickly regain the momentum it needed to eventually win 3-1.

The title was the first for Benjamin Franklin, a high school in Queen Creek, in any sport. Peterson continued to stamp her mark in the match in the second half when she scored another goal and assisted on her team’s second goal.

Freshman Izzy Lewis was the beneficiary of Peterson’s assist in front of the goalmouth in the 64th minute. About two minutes later, Peterson completed a 40-yard jaunt down the right side successfully after beating the goalkeeper.

“I think just working your hardest and always doing your best not only for yourself but for the whole team is what I strive for,” Peterson said.

Saturday’s meeting between the East Region squads was their second one of the season.

Unlike the first game, which 19-2 Benjamin Franklin won 4-2, No. 3 seed Gilbert Christian played without freshman sensation Mackenzie Kiser (28 goals), who suffered an injury in the state tournament.

“I’m so proud of the girls,” said coach Hector Orellana about his 16-2-1 Gilbert Christian team. “The girls played an unbelievable season. I know that they are going to come back stronger.”

Fifth-year Benjamin Franklin coach John Greksa, sporting a tie with a long sleeve shirt and shorts, celebrated Saturday’s victory with his twin brother, Ed, a Benjamin Franklin assistant, and his daughter, Rachel, a defender on the team.

Benjamin Franklin coach John Greksa was all smiles during team introductions Saturday. He had another reason to smile after the match. (Photo by Jose Garcia/azpreps365.)

“This was certainly amazing,” John said. “Hats off to Gilbert Christian, because that was one of the most amazing championships I’ve ever been a part of. These girls have worked so hard this year.”

With each team losing only three seniors, don’t be surprised if Gilbert Christian and Benjamin Franklin lock horns again in next year’s final.

Peterson (36 goals, 16 assists this season) certainly is returning for another title run it seems.

“I’m just so proud of our team,” Peterson said. “I hope we can continue next season too.”

Delin Peterson (looking at camera) celebrates with a teammate after leading her team to the 3A title Saturday at Westwood High. (Photo by Jose Garcia/azpreps365.com)