Libby kickers fall to Stevensville, 3-1

The Libby Loggers boys soccer team fell 3-1 to top-ranked Stevensville in the first round of the state playoffs Saturday.

“I am very proud of the players’ efforts against an undefeated team,” Head Coach Charlie Webster said. “Stevensville kept us out of rhythm and off-balance.”

The Yellowjackets began the scoring in the 20th minute on a 35-yard cross that was volleyed into the net.

“That’s the kind of shot you can practice 100 times and miss just as many,” Webster said.

Stevensville made it 2-0 in the 33rd minute on a penalty kick that resulted from a Libby defender catching a cross.

Libby earned a bit of momentum just before half when Cody Wood scored on a 25-yard free kick.

Yet, the comeback was not in the cards. Stevensville banged home a bouncing ball in front of the Libby net in the 46th minute to reclaim a two-goal lead and end the scoring.

“The seniors set three objectives for the team: Beat Columbia Falls, beat Bigfork and make the playoffs,” Webster said. “They accomplished all of those, so I hope they remember the season as a successful one.”

Four teams remain in the hunt for the state championship. Stevensville will play Billings Central, and Belgrade plays Livingston. Winners of those games will meet Nov. 2 in the championship game at a location to be determined.

The Loggers finished second in the North Dvision with a final conference record of 5-1-2, 5-6-2 overall.

“The boys did a good job implementing our planned strategy and tactics,” Webster said. “They all played with a lot of heart and they fought a good fight. They earened the respect of Stevensville.”