Bulldogs continue torrid stretch with 0-0 draw

COEUR d’ALENE — Another game, another stellar defensive effort for the Sandpoint boys, who tied Lake City 0-0 on Thursday in nonleague soccer action at the Irma Anderl Soccer Complex.

Jake Rookey stopped six shots to record his 10th shutout of the season, eclipsing last year’s team-high total of seven. The Bulldogs (11-2-2) are in the midst of an almost unheard of run defensively, allowing just two goals in the last 12 games to close out the regular season.

“We played well defensively. We dominated shots, dominated possession, just couldn’t find that finishing touch,” said Bulldogs head coach Adam Tajan. “It was a good game for us to be in right before a district tournament.”

Sandpoint hasn’t lost since moving Aaron Crossingham into the defensive backfield after starting the season 1-2-1. In the final 12 games, Sandpoint has scored 33 goals and allowed only two, an absolutely dominating stretch of play.

Lake City (8-1-4), the 5A Inland Empire League champion, suffered its only loss of the season earlier in Sandpoint, and played inspired the second time around.

“It was a good match,” Lake City coach Chad Beadell said. “We’re both in first place in our leagues. We went hard at it. Everyone played hard.”

Sandpoint awaits the winner of Tuesday’s 4A Region 1 opener between No. 3 seed Moscow and No. 2 seed Lakeland on Thursday, at 3:30 p.m. with a berth at state on the line.

First half — none. Second half — none.

Shots on goal — Spt 8, LC 6.

Saves — Spt, Jake Rookey 6, LC, Tanner Horton 4, Jared Stone 4.