Wildcats Take Down State-Ranked Midd-West in Thriller

MILL HALL — The Central Mountain boys soccer team closed out its regular-season home schedule with a statement win Wednesday night, defeating state-ranked Midd-West, 2-1, at Malinak Stadium.

Midd-West entered the match ranked No. 6 in the state in Class AA with a 13-1-1 record and had allowed only five goals all season. But the Wildcats delivered one of their best performances of the year, playing disciplined, inspired soccer for the full 80 minutes.

Central Mountain struck first in the 10th minute when senior Tim Brinker buried a shot inside the side netting off a precise assist from Dylan Bechdel. Midd-West answered later in the half, converting a penalty kick to even the score at 1-1 heading into halftime.

The game-winner came early in the second half. In the 43rd minute, senior Kullen McDermit rose above the defense to head home a free kick served in by Cole Cooper, giving Central Mountain a 2-1 advantage it would not relinquish.

Senior goalkeeper Jaggar Pardoe was outstanding between the posts, turning away numerous quality chances and anchoring a back line that frustrated one of the top offenses in the state.

All four goal contributions came from seniors in their final home match, capping the night with a memorable victory that guarantees the Wildcats a winning season at 8-5-3.

Central Mountain will close the regular season next week with a trip to Altoona before beginning District 6 playoff action in two weeks.