Girls soccer wins a pair to open season

Returning State Class A champs, Columbia Falls Wildcats girls soccer proved that they would once again be at team to watch this upcoming season as they made light work of the Stevensville Yellowjackets and Hamilton Broncs with scores of 7-2 and 6-1.

While the Broncs managed to score first with a goal from Anna Lewis just two minutes into the game, the Cats swiftly took control and dominated the match from the ninth minute onwards.  June Johnston scored a goal with help from Onnikka Lawrence and Columbia Falls didn’t look back from there. 

“Our forwards proved they can be two of the best in the state.  Lawrence picked up right where she left off with six goals this weekend.  June Johnston had a hat trick in her first game as a forward,” said head coach Thomas Clark.

The Cats had 29 shots on the Broncs goals while Hamilton would have just 7 in the matchup.  Making an impression, as well, would be goalkeeper, Medora Dahlstrom, with six saves. 

“Dahlstrom made the first two starts of her career, and I tell you what.  She’s going to be a really good goalkeeper for the next three years,” said Clark.

Against Stevi, the Cats took an early lead, scoring one of two goals in the first 7 minutes of the game. Lawrence (Byrd) scored the first goal at the 11-minute mark, followed by Johnston (Byrd) at the 11-minute mark.  Lawrence (Byrd) finished the game with a hat trick, while Byrd had three assists.  

Stevensville would find the back of the net at the 60-minute mark with a placement from Bryton Brewer

Columbia Falls once again dominated the shot-on-goal count, with 33 shots, while the Jackets had only 6.  Dahlstrom continued to be a force in goal, ending with 5 saves on the afternoon. 

“The team looked really strong as a whole on Friday. Our returning veteran starters really stepped up into their bigger roles and a lot of young players came in and put their stamp on the game.

“It was great to start the season with an opportunity to play two playoff teams from last year. I’m very happy with how we played offensively and the part is that there is still a whole lot of stuff to clean up,” said Clark.

The Wildcats will be in Billings this weekend as they play both Park County High and Billings Central on the road.

“It’s a blessing that we got two games in against strong opponents.  We have a lot to fix from watching the film.  Billings and Park are very tough, so this weekend will be another great change to continue to build forward the regular season,” Clark said.