5A STATE GIRLS SOCCER: Sandpoint’s season comes to end with loss to Skyline

Skyline 3, Sandpoint 0

MIDDLETON — Junior goalkeeper Izzy Stark stopped five shots as the No. 8 Lady Bulldogs were shutout by the No. 3 Lady Grizzlies (16-4-2) in the 5A State Championship consolation final held Saturday at Middleton High.

Skyline scored during the 13th minute off a free kick, during the 56th minute on a 15-yard free kick, and during the 72nd minute on left-footed volley from 15 yards out, despite being held to eight shots on goal compared to Sandpoint's nine.

Seniors Elia Howard and Mackenzie Mitchell provided plenty of crosses, but the Lady Bulldogs weren't able to get one past opposing goalkeeper Madison Merzlock.

Sandpoint High head coach Alan Brinkmeier said it may not have been the ending he wished for his seniors, which include Howard, Mitchell, Hope Barnes, Ava Glahe and Cecilia Dignan, but he couldn't be prouder of their leadership. He said they certainly left their mark on Sandpoint soccer and will be truly missed.

"It was just not our day," coach Brinkmeier noted. "We have battled back many times this season and with the way we were pressing and possessing, I thought we could have done so again. You never know what is going to happen at the state tournament, anyone has a chance. Thank you to the parents and supporters who traveled down this past weekend."

Sandpoint, which finished out the season with wins of five of their last seven matchups, wrapped up play with a record of 7-10-1.

5A Inland Empire League rival No. 5 Moscow (14-3-3) defeated No. 6 Vallivue (17-5) by a score of 1-0 in double overtime to win their first state championship in school history.

1st half — 1, SKY, Macy Marlow (Abby Muir), 13'. 2nd half — 2, SKY, Macy Marlow (Abby Muir), 56'. 3, SKY, Isley Dixon (unassisted), 72'.

Shots on goal: Sandpoint — 9. Skyline — 8.

Saves: Sandpoint — Izzy Stark 5. Skyline — Madison Merzlock 9.