In their opening match against Gladwin, both teams were evenly matched during the first half, with neither side able to find the back of the net. However, Alpena broke the deadlock in the second half when number six, Keller Skiba, powered through the defense to score the opening goal. Minutes later, Jack Supiran doubled Alpena’s lead with a well-taken strike.

Supiran found the net again shortly after from a free kick. Unfortunately, the goal was waived due to a ruling on the play, leaving the score at 2-0. Despite the overturned goal, Alpena held their lead, controlling the tempo for the remainder of the match to secure their first win of the tournament.

In their second match, Alpena faced a tough challenge from Grayling. The Wildcats fell behind when Grayling’s Bella Von Lampe scored the game’s only goal. Despite being down, Alpena fought back and earned a penalty kick after an infraction in the goalie box. Skiba stepped up to take the penalty but could not convert, trailing the Wildcats.

Alpena continued to press for an equalizer, but Grayling’s defense held firm, handing the Wildcats their only tournament defeat with a final score of 1-0.

News Photo by Leslianne Johns Alpena’s Kaleb Werth dribbles the ball down the field in the Wildcat’s game against Grayling on Saturday in Alpena. AHS took second place in the tournament they hosted, losing only one game to Grayling, 1-0.

In their final game, Alpena came out with renewed determination against Roscommon. Eight minutes into the game, a perfectly placed header by Skiba, assisted by Supiran, gave Alpena an early 1-0 lead. The Wildcats’ defense remained solid, maintaining their advantage through the first half.

Late in the second half, with only five minutes left on the clock, Skiba struck again, securing his second goal of the match and giving Alpena a comfortable 2-0 lead. The Wildcats closed the game with a clean sheet, ending the tournament on a high note.

With a strong 2-1 record, Alpena finished second overall in the tournament.

Grayling claimed first place, while Gladwin and Roscommon rounded out the standings.