Comets Advance On Second Golden Goal in Playoff Run
In a week filled with nail-biting soccer playoff matches, the HLA Boys were in two consecutive scoreless games at the end of regulation last week. This stressful situation tested their focus, dedication, and commitment as they faced off against Crookston on Thursday and Pelican Rapids on Saturday.
The Comets and the Pelican Rapids Vikings battled tirelessly throughout the intense matches, resulting in 80 minutes of regulation play with no goals to show for it. The Comets did their best to end the game, but the Vikings stymied their efforts. One specific moment occurred when Senior Captain Abram Ness was awarded a penalty kick, providing a glimmer of hope two-thirds into the second half. However, the Viking keeper, Ivan Franco, made a remarkable save, denying the Comets a lead.
As the tension mounted, the first half of overtime saw the Comets awarded a "drop ball" just outside the Viking eighteen-yard box after a Viking player was injured. Senior TJ Idudu launched a powerful shot toward the goal, where it was deflected by a Viking defenseman's head and keeper Franco's agile hands. It's worth noting that scoring off a drop ball requires the touch of another player before it can progress into the net.
Comet keeper Freshman Franki Renner showcased his talent by earning his fifth shutout of the season and the second of the Comet playoff run. Renner had a quiet evening, stopping two shots on target from the Vikings. This achievement was primarily attributed to the exceptional defensive efforts of the midfield and backline. Led by Senior Captain Matthew Knutson and Noah Bjordahl from midfield and Senior defender Max Anderson. The Comets were supported in their defensive efforts by a string of sophomore defenders in Kian Stender and Caleb Holm and midfielders Otavio Roseria, Lincoln Nash, and Drew Fischer, who was a solid force to control midfield and keep the Comet ball moving to the offensive side of the field.
Despite the offensive control and creative play, the Comets could not find the back of the net, with seven shots on goal just inches away from breaking the deadlock. Notably, Senior Noah Bjorndahl launched to electrifying shots from near midfield that were on target but expertly defended by the Vikings.
Reflecting on the team's performance, the Comet coaches expressed profound pride. Head Coach Rod Jensen remarked, "I am very proud of our team! Pelican was tough, skilled, and physical… The Comets received outstanding defensive efforts from a group of seniors, including Lincoln Nash, Senior Captain Matthew Knutson, Drew Fischer, Otavio Roseira, Senior Captain Noah Bjorndahl, Caleb Holm, Senior Max Anderson, and Kian Stender, a place-kicker specialist from the backfield."
Now, with a record of 11-6-1 this season, the Comets are gearing up for their ultimate challenge. On Tuesday in Sauk Centre, they will face off against the number one-ranked Class A school in Minnesota, St. Cloud Cathedral. The Comets lost to Cathedral earlier this year on a penalty kick in what many note was their best regular season game. The Comets look to match the effort of the #1 team in the State, which gives up few shots on net and few goals. The intense battles they've endured this week have served as a rigorous training ground, strengthening their resolve and determination for the upcoming section showdown.