Chandler's girls soccer team didn't lose focus nor seem to suffer jitters Wednesday evening on Senior Night. The Lady Wolves didn't have the luxury.

Needing a victory to solidify or at least keep a postseason berth in play, Chandler managed a 3-1 victory over visiting Mesquite in a Division I contest at Austin Field.

Chandler (8-6-1 overall, 6-5-1 in power-ranking matches) entered its regular-season finale No. 16 in the D-I power-rankings. The top 16 teams qualify for the state tournament that begins Tuesday (Feb. 3). The team at No. 17 in the power rankings -- Red Mountain -- lost Wednesday to Perry, 3-0. Mesquite, the only team to hand section champ Highland a loss earlier this month, was contending for a playoff berth. The Lady Wildcats, however, dropped their final four matche to finish up 9-10-1, 4-8 prm.

First-year Chandler coach Joe Paulsen, who previously helped coach at rival Hamilton, seemed optimistic about gaining a spot in postseason after the victory. If his team indeed qualifies, he figures they deserve it.

"We came out and played with a lot of heart, led by our seniors," Paulsen said. "This has been a year of a culture change for us. There are plenty of athletes here. I'm just here to show them how to work together and compete." 

First-half goals by Madison McAnelly and Kamy Kjerstad staked Chandler to a 2-0 lead as it dominated the first half. The Lady Wolves seemed a step quicker the first 40 minutes and played with confidence. Mesquite was more energetic in the second half and managed to pull within a goal 12 minutes in to the second half.

Mesquite made it 2-1, scoring after a corner kick and regaining possession. Kasie Larsen's cross was tapped home on a header by Camryn Larson. But before Mesquite could take advantage of momentum gained from the goal, Chandler answered. Danica Nelson notched her second assist of the match  two minutes later, finding Gabrielle Enns deep in the box. Enns finished and the Lady Wolves lead was quickly two again. Mesquite threatened a couple more times, but keeper Julia Byerlein with big help once by defender Mikayla Thomas, prevented any more damage.

The goals by McAnelly and Enns were their team-leading fifth of the year. Enns, while taking a breather after McAnelly scored the first goal, told Paulsen she would tie her teammate if the opportunity came. It did and restored Chandler's two-goal cushion.