The Whitefish boys soccer team fell 1-0 in the State A championship match after allowing a late goal to Billings Central on Saturday in Billings.

Three of the last four state championship games have been between the Whitefish Bulldogs and the Billings Central Rams. 

A heavy rain stopped just in time for the starting whistle of the match, which saw a tough defensive battle throughout. The teams played to a tieless first half and seemed to be on their way to overtime when, with less than two minutes to go in regulation time, a Rams' through ball hit its mark and sophomore Cal Wiesen was able to sink it into the far side of the Bulldog goal. 

Billings took 10 shots on goal compared to Whitefish's four, and had five corner kicks versus two for Whitefish. 

“It was a tough, physical battle and a game of fine margins as we expected. Our boys showed up and once again put themselves out there and gave everything they have,” Whitefish Head Coach Eric Sawtelle said. “I’m proud of the way they conducted themselves throughout the match and the way they supported one another all season.”  

Sawtelle noted that Amend Park in Billings is a difficult place to play a final due, in part, to the chaotic environment created by the raucous home crowd. 

"We had a hard time establishing much of a possession rhythm with the ball and gave them too much space at times," Sawtelle said, adding that the Rams closed the Bulldogs' space and took possession in the midfield. 

"Our defense played well once again but, unfortunately, Billings Central was able to put away a good opportunity created right at the end of the game," Sawtelle said. "We did not have any time left to respond." 

The Whitefish boys last won the State A title in 2023, with a 1-0 win over Billings Central. Last year, the Whitefish boys team lost, 4-0, to Polson in the championship game and the 2024 title slipped away from the Bulldogs in Billings when they lost to the Rams in overtime. 

"This is a special group of boys, and I am thankful for all of the great memories they created throughout the season," Sawtelle said. "We are also very thankful for all of our families and supporters that have been with us all year." 

Reporter Julie Engler can be reached at 406-862-3505 or [email protected]. If you value local journalism, pledge your support at whitefishpilot.com/support.

    Whitefish’s Roen Chisholm charges the ball during the state Class A soccer championship game at Amend Park on Saturday, Oct. 31. Any Lynn Nelson/Billings Gazette)
   

    Whitefish’s Ben Nelson makes a leaping save during the MHSA State Class A Soccer championship game at Amend Park on Saturday, Oct. 31. (Amy Lynn Nelson/Billings Gazette)