Harris, McAtee lead Wildkats over Hamilton

On Oct. 15, the Columbia Falls Wildkats displayed an outstanding performance, as Josie Harris and Hope McAtee combined forces to secure a 2-0 victory over the top-seeded Hamilton in a Class A soccer quarterfinal.

The game began with a bang as Harris scored in the 8th minute, breaking the ice. McAtee added to the excitement by providing the assist, which also tied the state single-season record with a remarkable 21 assists. The icing on the cake came in the 78th minute when McAtee scored a goal of her own, with the assistance of Onnikka Lawrence.

Thrilled by the team’s triumph, Wildkats coach Thomas Clark praised the entire squad, noting their attacking prowess and defensive stability. He expressed his excitement for moving on to the next round and hosting a semifinal. Clark also acknowledged the commendable efforts of Hamilton, especially their goalkeeper who made sensational saves and the formidable Hannah Hughes who proved to be a tough contender.

With this victory, Hamilton concludes their season with an 11-2-0 record. Meanwhile, Columbia Falls (11-1-2) looks forward to a home semifinal against Bigfork on Saturday.

Columbia Falls 1 1 — 2

Hamilton 0 0 — 0

CF — Josie Harris (Hope McAtee) 8:00

CF — McAtee (Onnikka Lawrence) 78:00

Shots — CF 13, Hamilton 4. Goalie saves — CF 4 (Erica Burguiere), Hamilton 11 (Mia Faulk). Corner kicks — CF 7, Hamilton 1. Fouls — CF 12, Hamilton 0.

Boys

Corvallis 2, Columbia Falls 1

CORVALLIS — In a thrilling quarterfinal match, Corvallis managed to eliminate the defending boys Class A champion, Columbia Falls, with a late comeback that sealed a 2-1 victory.

Kai Golan made an impressive start for the Wildcats, scoring from a free kick in the 2nd minute, giving them the advantage at halftime.

However, the second half saw a turn of events as Enzo Monzier equalized in the 47th minute, followed by Jack Hanson’s goal less than 10 minutes later, securing the win for Corvallis (8-2-2). Earlier in the season, these teams had tied, making this victory even more significant. Despite their best efforts, Columbia Falls (10-3-1) couldn’t overcome the deficit.

Golan’s goal not only contributed to the game but also tied the state record, marking his 68th career goal.

Columbia Falls 1 0 — 1

Corvallis 0 2 — 2

CF — Kai Golan 2:00

Corvallis — Enzo Monnier (Chance Jessup) 47:00

Corvallis — Jack Hansen (Fox Goodrich) 56:00

Shots — CF 16, Corvallis 10. Goalie saves — CF 7 (Rafe Rusche), Corvallis 10 (Kai Knight). Corner kicks — CF 4, Corvallis 5. Cards — Corvallis 2.