News Photo by Leslianne Johns Alpena's Jackson Birmingham dribbles the ball in Thursday's home game against Cadillac.

ALPENA — In a game dominated by defense, the Alpena Wildcat varsity soccer team found just enough offense to secure a 1-0 victory over the Cadillac Vikings on Thursday on senior night at Wildcat Stadium.

Junior Joe LaCross delivered the deciding goal with 29:33 left in the first half, striking early and giving Alpena a lead it would hold the rest of the way. From there, the game turned into a battle of back lines, with both teams showcasing strong and disciplined defensive efforts.

Alpena’s defense, anchored by its seniors, held firm against Cadillac’s second-half pressure. The Vikings created chances but were continually turned away by a resilient Wildcat back line that refused to give up an equalizer. Cadillac’s defense was equally sharp, limiting Alpena’s opportunities and keeping the game within reach until the final whistle.

The night carried extra meaning for the Wildcats, who honored five seniors — Lucas Thomson, Mason Hinkley, Jace Kadrich, Owen Kaiser, and Nicholas Dargis — for their contributions to the program. Each senior played a role in maintaining the intensity and composure that defined the match.

The victory gave Alpena a memorable send-off for its seniors and momentum as the team prepares for post-season play. The Wildcats will return to their home field Thursday at 6 p.m., hosting Petoskey in the opening round of the playoffs.

The Wildcats traveled to Frankenmuth on Wednesday, returning with a 4-1 loss to a competitive Frankenmuth team. Hinkley scored the lone Alpena goal in the first half, which was the first goal of the game. The Wildcats lost momentum heading into the second half, ultimately losing the contest.