Home soccer semifinal doubleheader for Dawgs
Whitefish High School boys and girls soccer teams both host home games today against Billings Central in a Class A semifinal game at Smith Fields.
The winners of each game will advance to play Laurel in the state title game. Laurel’s boys and girls teams both secured championship berths on Friday.
Laurel’s girls defeated Columbia Falls 3-1 and the boys beat Frenchtown in a shootout.
Boys
Whitefish vs.
Billings Central, 11 a.m.
The Bulldogs played Billings Central once during the regular season and won.
“We feel confident going in to this one,” coach John Lacey said. “Knowing an opponent makes the second match a little easier.”
And they should be confident. No one in Class A can seem to beat the 13-0 Bulldogs.
Last week Whitefish beat Stevensville soundly, 10-2.
They’ve had a week off since that game to get ready for Central.
“A lot of trying to stay sharp and focused, trying to stay healthy,” Lacey said. “We’ve been through this process now for three or four years and we’re used to the week layoff. It makes us really excited for a big game tomorrow. It’s our last home hame of the year and we spent the week getting primed and ready so I think we’re good to go.”
If the Bulldogs win today, they will travel to Laurel for the final.
“The fact that this is one away from state title game .. This is what they’ve been building toward,” Lacey said. “We’ve got a really strong team and we’ve targeted these games for a while. They have viewed themselves in this position for a while and I think they’re ready to take it right now.”
Girls
Whitefish vs.
Billings Central 1 p.m.
When the Bulldogs last met Central this season, they were not at their best. Several players were sick and they had played seven games in nine days. Central won 5-0.
Things have changed since then for the 10-4 Bulldogs.
“We’re definitely a different team,” coach Roland Benedict said. “We have become a lot more dynamic. I think Billings will be shocked.”
As far as what to expect from Central, Benedict said it will be a lot like the first time they played.
They’re gonna play the same way and attack the same way,” he said. ”It’s going to be a challenge but we’re ready for it.”
Last week, Whitefish knocked off Missoula Loyola 4-2 and have had a week off in between.
In addition to training sessions, Benedict said part of the focus is on the Central players and attack.
“What we are going to do to expose their weaknesses and make them uncomfortable and see how they handle themselves,” Benedict said.
“They’re gonna have fun and enjoy it,” he added. “Our mental spirits are great. They know how important it is, but it’s just another game. Whoever you’re playing, just go out and try to win. It’s great that we can finally host one of these at home.”
If they win today, the Bulldogs would host the state title game against Laurel.