The Columbia Falls Lady Wildcats tied the Bigfork Valkyries 4-4 last Tuesday in their first conference game of the season and beat Polson 9-1 in a home match on Thursday.

Coach Thomas Clark was impressed with his back line’s performance and gave credit to players Apani Awua, Ilah McKenzie, Brenna Ruggiero, Alexa Friske, Riley Byrd and Onnikka Lawrence for their good work on defense. Awua especially has been a great leader, and Friske has stood out as a hardworking freshman player. Erica Burguiere, the team’s new keeper, has emerged as a “poised, confident” player and made several saves for the team.

McAtee achieved 63 assists and became a career assist leader for the state on Tuesday, while Josie Harris became second in the state for career goals.

The Wildcats faced rival Whitefish Bulldogs Tuesday after presstime, see online for updates. Up next, they will take on Libby on the road Sept. 14 at 4 p.m.