Alpena High School’s boys’ soccer team came away with a 2-2 tie against Gaylord on Thursday in a Big North Conference match played at Gaylord, with the Wildcats twice taking the lead before the Blue Devils answered.
Wildcats build and lose a lead
Jackson Birmingham opened the scoring for Alpena with a header assisted by Joe LaCross. Gaylord’s goalkeeper then made several key saves, sending the match to halftime with Alpena ahead 1-0.
The Blue Devils tied the game early in the second half, but LaCross restored Alpena’s advantage midway through the half. Jacob Krey and Reece Dragiewicz assisted on the goal. Gaylord scored late to make it 2-2.
LaCross finished with one goal and one assist, while Birmingham added a goal. Dragiewicz and Krey each recorded an assist. Jayden Crandall made five saves in goal for Alpena.
Coach praises Alpena’s defense
“Good Big North contest against a quality opponent,” Alpena coach Ken Dragiewicz said. “We had some chances, especially in the first half that we didn’t capitalize on. I give credit to the Gaylord goalie for making a couple key saves.”
Dragiewicz said he was proud of the team’s performance and specifically praised the back line of Krey, Bryson Collegnon, Jackson Natzel and Reed Leeck.
What’s next for Alpena soccer
The Wildcats next travel for games at Cadillac and Petoskey. Alpena will then host a Saturday tournament featuring Grayling, Cheboygan and Traverse City St. Francis.
Dragiewicz encouraged community members, particularly players in the youth soccer program, to attend the tournament, support Alpena’s team and watch the matches.