Busch helps Bulldogs punch ticket to state

SANDPOINT — A huge throw in from Nan Kiebert landed in front of the goal, and Ashly Busch was able to fight through traffic and poke the ball past the keeper, providing the winning goal as Sandpoint downed Moscow 1-0 in the 4A Region 1 girls soccer championship Thursday at sunny Pine St. Field.

After several close attempts, Busch was able to finally capitalize for the Bulldogs (6-8-2), who earned the right to defend their state title next weekend in Coeur d’Alene. Busch, sporting a cast on her wrist, came up with her team’s biggest goal of the season to date.

“It (throw) came out, I took a touch with my left and I got it (the goal),” described Busch of the game winner, her second goal of the season. “We’re going on to defend our state championship.”

The game was scoreless for a long time, thanks in large part to some solid play from the back line of Corinne Ariss, Heidi Skinner, Madi Schoening and Grace Johnson. Paige Dumars earned her fourth shutout of the season in goal.

Ariss helped direct not just the back four, but much of the attack, moving up on occasion to bolster the attack.

Kiebert was using a hand spring throw-in with great success, launching some balls that were landing in traffic in front of the goal, ultimately helping lead to the game winning goal. She also brought a lot of octane to the attack, joining Riley Couch to send in some great crosses throughout the game.

Ariss and Schoening are as good a defensive tandem as you’ll find anywhere in the state, and both played key roles in shutting down a pair of lightning quick strikers for Moscow. Both were also instrumental in last year’s title run, and Ariss feels the team could be primed to defend their trophy.

“I think we can absolutely do it, we peaked at just the right time,” said Ariss. “We have a lot of heart this year.”

Bulldogs head coach Conor Baranski was most pleased with his team’s composure, but felt they left a few goals on the field.

“They’re starting to realize they’re a good team. We need to work on our swagger and confidence. When firing on all cylinders, we’ll be tough to beat,” said Baranski.. “I was pleased with our composure everywhere but in front of the goal. Everything besides that was perfect. I wish we would have won by a few more.”

Sandpoint opens the tournament on Thursday, against Twin Falls (14-4) at 9 a.m. at Lake City High School.

First half — None. Second half — 1, Spt, Ashly Busch (Nan Kiebert), 76:00.

Shots on goal — Spt 19, Moscow 8.

Saves — Spt, Paige Dumars, 6; Moscow, 12.