Sandpoint boys upset in state tournament
Randy Lane (17) races down the field as he attempts to fend off a Bishop Kelly player in the opening game of the state 4A soccer tournament.
(Photo courtesy JASON DUCHOW PHOTOGRAPHY)
Stirling Roget (11) Jett Longanecker (2) and Kai Longanecker shows their dejection after the Bulldogs were defeated in extra time in the opening round of the state 4A boys soccer tournament.
It just goes to show that once playoffs start, a perfect season can mean absolutely nothing.
That is the lesson that the top-seeded Sandpoint Bulldogs learned Thursday night in Post Falls, as they dropped their first game of the 4A State Soccer Tournament to No. 8 seed Bishop Kelly.
The game at the Real Life Fields was a gritty one, with both teams embracing the physical side of the sport. Sandpoint, as well Bishop Kelly, had their chances in the offensive zones, but strong defensive play led to multiple blocked shots and zone clears.
The defensive battle resulted in a 0-0 tie at the end of regulation. Overtime began at a breakneck pace for both teams, as each took turns making drives down the field. It was only when Bishop Kelly gained enough ground in the defensive zone roughly halfway through OT that they were able to set up a play right in front of the Sandpoint net and kick home the sudden death goal.
This game was not only the Bulldogs’ first loss of the season, but also the first time they had been shut out. Sandpoint coach Tanner French declined to comment on his team's performance after the loss.
The Bulldogs soccer will now play in the consolation bracket, starting with a game Friday morning at 11 a.m. The highest place they could earn now is third in the tournament.
