MISSOULA – Yesterday, the Butte High soccer teams challenged the Knights on their home field at Hellgate High.

Girls: 

The girls team was the first to throw down the gauntlet, led by Head Coach, Colstrip native, and former athlete Steve Shahan.

Despite their eagerness to play, the game suffered from multiple delays on account of the nearby lightning storm. The first delay pushed the start of the game up by 90 minutes, and another 30 minute delay came just before the second half of the game. By this point the Butte High Girls were down 5 – 0.

The first goal of the game was made by Kenzie Jaksha at the 55 minute mark. Kenzie hounded the defender, showing great patience while Kali Burke sprinted from 40 yards away to amp up the pressure. Kenzie seized the opportunity and knocked the goal in from the doorstep.

Unfortunately, the team was unable to exceed the lead of their opposition. The Lady Knights added a few more goals and ended the game at full time with a score of 10 – 1.

Despite the loss, Coach Shahan was impressed by the effort, attitude, and teamwork shown on the field. He reported that Kaylee LaPier made several outstanding saves and quickly bounced back after Hellgate’s goals. Hayla Hoffman and Catherine Sholey did a great job of challenging the other teams midfielders and stopping threats.

This team has a ton of potential, and we’re looking forward to seeing their progress as the season moves forward.

Boys:

After another long lightning delay, Assistant Coach and former Bulldog goal keeper Logan Roepe led the charge against Hellgate Head Coach Jay Anderson and his players. Head Coach Cody Carpenter was unable to attend due to a family medical issue.

The boys went into the match with one leg tied behind their backs, on account that they only had 11 varsity players to start the game (due to injury recovery and the 10-day practice rule). To even the odds, 7 JV players were brought up to fill the remaining spots on the roster.

Despite a valiant effort from the boys, the Knights were too well prepared to open the season. After the Bulldogs found themselves trailing 5-0 at the half to the 3-time defending state champs, the score doubled in the second half and it ended 10-0 Hellgate.

Despite playing with a major disadvantage, the Boys of Butte High put up one heck of a fight. We can’t wait to see what the team can do once its back to 100%. Great effort guys!

Written by Shane Cox