PREP SOCCER: Sandpoint boys take down Blackfoot, advance to state title match

Sandpoint 3, Blackfoot 2

CALDWELL — Three different Bulldogs scored as No. 6 Sandpoint defeated No. 7 Blackfoot, 3-2 in the 4A state semi-finals held at Brothers Park on Friday.

In the first half, Sandpoint’s Eoin Eddy scored on a penalty kick to put the Bulldogs in front 1-0. Extending the lead in the second half was Luke Leavitt who scored off an assist from Tristan Hansch during the 44th minute. During the 52nd minute, Caiden Gion scored off a free kick to extend the Bulldogs lead to a commanding 3-0.

“Going up 3-0 in a state semi-final is massive,” head coach Tanner French said. “We were able to play our entire bench and rest some legs. I think the only way to truly experience a situation like this is, well, to be in that situation, so I’m glad everyone played.”

Heading into the second half, Sandpoint held firm, but their lead diminished to just one goal by the time the 75th minute came around. Blackfoot scored in both the 65th and 75th minute, which had Bulldog fans on the edge of their seats. Ultimately, Sandpoint did hold on to win, 3-2.

“Allowing Blackfoot to get back in the match was difficult,” French said. “Nothing ever goes exactly as planned, and Blackfoot was an entirely different team in the second half. Regardless, I’m super proud of the boys for finishing this game out. It’s always difficult to come off the emotional high of a match, but this is why we schedule two games in two days, for these moments.”

No. 6 Sandpoint (10-5-3) faces No. 1 Wood River (17-2-2) in the state championship match which is being held at Middleton High School on Saturday at 3:00 p.m. (MST).

1st half – 1, SPT, Eoin Eddy (penalty kick), 13’. 2nd half – 2, SPT, Luke Leavitt (Tristan Hansch), 44’. 3, SPT, Caiden Gion (free kick), 52’. 4, BF, Javian Ballesteros (unassisted), 65’. 5, BF, unknown, 75’.

Shots on goal – Sandpoint 9, Blackfoot 8.

Saves – Sandpoint, Kai Longanecker 2. Blackfoot, unknown, 1.