Pirates win twice

POLSON — The Polson boys soccer team knows that every game counts, especially when its conference only  takes two teams to state.

The Pirates notched wins against Bigfork and Columbia Falls last week.

On Thursday, the Pirates won 2-0 over Bigfork.

Polson had numerous chances in the first 20 minutes, including two free kicks.

The Pirates broke through in the 50th minute when senior midfielder Peter Hanson rocketed a low shot, scoring in the corner of the net. Polson’s lead almost diminished when the Vikings got a penalty shot. Pirate’s sophomore goal keeper Clay Frissell dove to his right side to stop the shot and keep Bigfork scoreless.

A minute later, Polson proved it wasn’t through when senior midfielder Jacob Browne buried a loose ball into the net to give the Pirates a 2-0 lead.

“That was a huge win and it keeps us in the running,” Hanson said. “Only two teams go to state so we need to keep pace with Libby and Whitefish.”

On Saturday the Pirates traveled to Columbia Falls for another conference game, getting a five goal outburst in the second half to roll over the Wildcats 5-0.

Despite what Pirates head coach Jess Kittle called a “sluggish” first half, Polson took his half-time pep talk to heart, starting the second half with a goal by junior midfielder Trevor Moll off a pass from freshman defender James Larson.

“Trevor Moll had a great game in the midfield, he got our first goal but all game long he was making great passes and he has a great ability to make a small touch on the ball to get around a defender,” Kittle said.

Hanson and junior striker Sean Hart each added two goals for the victory.

Kittle praised the defense for their play all season.

“As I have said for the last five games, our defense has done a fantastic job of limiting the opponents chances on our goal,” Kittle said. “This was our 4th shutout of the season and they only allowed one goal in the last five games.”

The Pirates face Columbia Falls tomorrow night at home.