The Alpena Wildcat varsity soccer team lost a close game to the Petoskey Northmen on Thursday at Wildcat Stadium. The Northmen bested the Wildcats 1-0.

Alpena goalie Jayden Crandall had three saves, Joe LaCross had three shots on goal, and Jackson Birmingham had three shots on goal.

“For the third game in three nights, the team played with energy and passion and I was pleased with their effort,” said Coach Ken Dragiewicz.

He added that the defense of Reece Dragiewicz, Reed Leeck, Jace Kadrich, Jackson Natzel and Parker Kaiser played solid the entire game, limiting Petoskey to four shots on net.

“Reed played an exceptional game and has emerged as a defensive leader for the team,” Dragiewicz said.

The midfielders and forwards generated several scoring changes but unfortunately could not find the back of the net.

“Joe LaCross has emerged as an offensive threat, forcing the Petoskey goalies to make some difficult saves,” Dragiewicz said. “Petoskey is a solid team, and it was an exciting, well-played match.”

He added that they are looking forward to the rematch later this season.

The Wildcats will host Traverse City Central at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday.

Then, they travel to Sault Ste. Marie on Thursday, and host a home tournament on Saturday.

On Sept. 23, the Cats head to Boyne City for a 5 p.m. game, then they host Traverse City West at 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 25. They head to Gaylord on Sept. 30, and to Frankenmuth on Oct. 1.

They host Cadillac at 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 2, then wrap up the regular season with a rematch at Petoskey on Oct. 6.