Traverse City Central opened the scoring with a goal from Kylie Ball at the 33-minute mark in the first half. Maintaining pressure and dominating possession, the Trojans added to their lead when Tessa Petty found the back of the net with 12:28 left in the half.

The Wildcats struggled to advance the ball through TCC’s strong midfield, but they got a break when Sophie Kindt was awarded a penalty kick. Kindt capitalized, burying the shot with 10:22 remaining to cut the lead to 2-1 by halftime.

Early in the second half, a yellow card was issued to Traverse City Central with 33:50 on the clock, but the Trojans didn’t let up. Annabelle Bird netted TCC’s third goal at the 25:46 mark, once again widening the gap. While Alpena fought to regain possession, TCC maintained control and continued to create chances.

Goalkeeper Taylor Parker kept the Wildcats in the game with several key saves, fending off a barrage of shots from the Trojans. However, with 17:14 left, Ball scored her second of the night to make it 4-1.

News Photo by Leslianne Johns Sophie Kindt eyes her opponent during Thursday’s game against Traverse City Central in Alpena.

Alpena kept pushing and found a late goal from Ezra Peterson with just 2:02 to go, but ultimately fell short when time ran out.

Looking ahead to Saturday’s final matchup against Cheboygan at 11 a.m., the Wildcats aim to close out their season with confidence and pride.

News Photo by Leslianne Johns Gracelynn Olson runs up the field during the Wildcat soccer team’s game on Thursday evening. Alpena lost 4-2.

News Photo by Leslianne Johns Faith Dragiewicz poses with her parents during halftime, honoring her on senior night during Thursday’s soccer game in Alpena. Dragiewicz was the only Wildcat senior on Thursday.