Montague, MI — Coming off the high of capturing the program’s first district championship last fall, the Montague boys soccer team entered this season with raised expectations. But an early stumble over the weekend served as a reminder that defending a title comes with new challenges.
The Wildcats dropped both of their games Saturday, falling 5-2 to Howard City Tri-County and 3-0 to Wyoming Kelloggsville. While the effort was there, defensive lapses proved costly and left Montague chasing from behind in each match.
Tri-County was able to break through Montague’s back line with speed in the opening match, putting the game out of reach despite a pair of Wildcat goals. Later in the day, Kelloggsville controlled possession and pressured Montague’s defense consistently, ultimately shutting out the Wildcats.
Even with the slow start, Montague players and coaches remain optimistic that the lessons learned from these early setbacks will sharpen their focus as the season unfolds.
“We know what we’re capable of,” senior Noah Raeth said. “We just have to commit to doing the little things right. Once we do that, we can get back to playing the kind of soccer that won us a district title.”
Montague looks to regroup this week as they continue their non-conference schedule, hoping to rebuild the defensive identity that fueled last year’s memorable run.
Check out our soccer section for more coverage and information.
Up Next for Montague:
- Aug. 20, 6:30 PM — vs. Muskegon (Home)
- Aug. 23, 9:00 AM — Kent City Tournament (Away at Kent City)
