The Bemidji High School girls soccer team delivered an impressive performance on Thursday night, defeating East Grand Forks 4-0 in a match held at Chet Anderson Stadium. With this victory, Bemidji showcased their skill and determination, emerging dominant against their rivals.
Strong teamwork characterized the Lumberjacks’ initial play. Just two minutes into the game, a pass from the Green Wave was intercepted, leading to a swift counterattack. After a series of precise passes, Izzy Renn set up Stella Schoonover for a shot that found the right corner of the net, providing Bemidji with an early 1-0 lead. Head coach Logan Larsen noted the significance of this fast start, stating, “It’s a confidence builder. We talk a lot about the next five minutes after a goal, and I think we still showed up after that rather than being just overly happy with one goal.”
The Lumberjacks maintained their momentum throughout the match, continuing to create scoring opportunities. In the 29th minute, Abby Bokovoy made an insightful pass to Kayce Christianson, who scored from close range, doubling the lead to 2-0. The consistent effort demonstrated by Bemidji particularly stood out compared to previous games. Larsen expressed satisfaction with the team’s overall performance, emphasizing improved energy levels and execution.
Renn, who contributed significantly to the match, scored her first goal of the night in the 36th minute, converting a corner kick taken by Ella Willford. Just minutes later, in the 42nd minute, Renn added another goal, skillfully placing the ball over East Grand Forks goalkeeper Natalie Drees, bringing the score to 4-0. This marked Renn’s fifth goal in five games, a streak that has garnered attention. “What I hope is that she’s really happy with herself because she’s a person that’s very hard on herself,” Larsen remarked on Renn’s performance.
The comfortable lead allowed players such as Rylinn Lawson to relax and find their rhythm, especially after slower starts in previous matches. “It definitely gave us a lot more excitement going into the game,” Lawson said. “Everyone was very happy.” Meanwhile, the BHS defense was formidable, allowing only one shot on goal throughout the match, which was saved by goalkeeper Clara Bieber. Larsen praised the defense’s collaboration and expressed a desire for improved ball control to increase possession time.
As the game unfolded, Lawson, who was playing in her third varsity match, adapted well to the faster pace of play. “It’s a lot faster of a play, and definitely the ball is moving a lot faster with the passes,” she explained. The transition from junior varsity to varsity can be challenging, but Lawson felt she adjusted quickly, aided by her summer training.
Another factor in the game was the artificial turf at Chet Anderson Stadium, which presented a different playing experience compared to natural grass. Lawson noted, “The ball’s definitely moving a lot faster. But still, it was very fun.”
The match also provided valuable playing time for junior varsity players, including Rylee Story and Hannah Quinn, who rose to the occasion under the stadium lights. Larsen commended their performance, highlighting how they handled the pressure of a competitive atmosphere. “(Rylinn), Rylee and Hannah had very good games for jumping into a game with a lot of atmosphere,” he said.
With this decisive victory, the Bemidji Lumberjacks demonstrate their potential as they move forward in the season. The team is eager to build on this performance and continue their strong play as they strive for success in upcoming matches.
The final score was Bemidji 4, East Grand Forks 0, with goals from Schoonover, Christianson, and two from Renn. The Lumberjacks look to maintain their momentum as they progress through the season.