Crossingham, Wehse lead Bulldogs past Bears

SANDPOINT — A beautiful goal by Adam Crossingham and some stellar goalkeeping from Erik Wehse kept Sandpoint in the game, before an own goal by Moscow proved the difference in the Bulldogs 2-1 win over the Bears Tuesday afternoon in Inland Empire League boys soccer at Great Northern Park.

Moscow drew first blood early in the second half, taking a 1-0 lead on a goal by Ryan Rust. Crossingham, who returned to the starting lineup after an early season knee injury, hit the equalizer just five minutes later when he slid a deft touch shot past the Moscow goalie just inside the far post.

Crossingham had a chance for another goal, but his penalty kick was blocked when the Moscow goalie guessed right and made a diving stop.

The two teams would battle back and forth in the physical game, knowing the winner would get the inside track to hosting the 4A district tournament. In the 70th minute, after each team had generated numerous shots on goal, a Moscow defender misplayed a header and launched a looping ball backward about 20 yards and over the head of his leaping keeper.

Sandpoint (3-0-1, 2-0 IEL) gave up 12 shots on goal, including several from point blank range. Wehse, a freshman, made several eye-catching stops to hold the Bears to just one goal.

“Erik was the man of the match today, for sure,” said Sandpoint head coach Randy Thoreson. “He saved our bacon; just dynamite today.”

Sandpoint hosts Stillwater Christian on Friday, at 5:30 p.m. at Great Northern Field.

First half — None. Second half — 1, Mos, Ryan Rust (David Sanchez), 46:00. 2, Spt, Adam Crossingham (Matt Miller), 51:00. 3, Spt, own goal, 70:00.

Shots on goal — Mos 12, Spt 12.

Saves — Mos, Tanner Jones 9; Spt, Erik Wehse 9.