Girls soccer advances to semis with 5-1 win over Broncs

The Columbia Falls girls soccer team delivered an impressive performance in a 5-1 victory over the Hamilton Broncs on Saturday in the quarterfinal round of post-season play.

The Cats launched their attack at the 27-minute mark.  Onnikka Lawrence provided June Johnston with a perfect opportunity to score, putting Columbia Falls up 1-0.  Shortly after, Hamilton managed to score as well, tying the game at 1-1 heading into the half.

Columbia Falls would come out and make a bold statement in the second half by scoring four goals within 12 minutes. Johnston opened the scoring with a goal assisted by Riley Byrd.  Shortly after, Lawrence would capitalize on a ball placement from Tatiana Raymond, adding to the Cats’ lead.  Riley Byrd would seal Hamilton’s fate by scoring two consecutive goals, both assisted by Lawrence, within a short span.

“Hamilton came in with a good defensive game plan, and it took us a while to come into the game from a physicality standpoint. 

The girls really adjusted well after halftime and played the style of soccer they are capable of,” said head coach Thomas Clark. 

The Cats would have 18 shots on goal in the afternoon, compared to the Broncs’ five.  Goalkeeper Medora Dahlstrom would play a crucial role in her team’s defense, saving five shots.

“Our upper classman really stepped up, and we got great performances from some great players, too.  Dahlstrom made some great saves.  Noeley Fisher really rallied well in the second half, and June Johnston scored our first two goals of the game,” said Clark.

The Wildcats will move onto to face Billings Central in semifinal action on the road. They’ll play on Lockwood’s field as the Rams’ field is hosting state A cross country.

“Billings is one of the best teams in the state, so they are no stranger to post-season play.  It will take our best to beat them.  I thought last year’s quarterfinal against them was the game of the year, and I’m sure the emotions will be high.  We really just need to go out and execute,” said Clark.

The Cats defeated Billings Central, 3-1, in September.