Spartans historic season ends at Hudson

 

On Saturday afternoon the Superior Spartans traveled to #1 seeded Hudson to face the Raiders in the WIAA regional final.  It was the first game between Superior and Hudson since the 2018 season.  Superior entered the game with an 18-2-1 record and the #4 seed.  Hudson was 16-1-2 on the season and ranked as high as #2 in the state of Wisconsin.  This was going to be a tough game no matter how you play it.

Hudson came out fast and controlled the possession and the pace.  Multiple balls played into the attacking third came through to their quick forward, but senior goalie Brady Bachand played terrific and made several early saves to keep the Superior hopes alive.  Eventually the Raiders broke through down the right side but the Spartan defense kept them outside at a very bad angle.  However, the Raiders midfielder played it across the goal in what looked like a cross but ended up in the far upper corner of the goal.  Either way, it was a spectacular goal that gave Hudson a 1-0 lead at the 9:27 mark.

For the next several minutes, Superior endured the Raiders attack.  The Spartans responded well to the early deficit, but just couldn't get possession long enough to create their own attack.  The defense held strong and Bachand continued to turn away breakaway after breakaway.  Hudson earned a corner kick that was placed beautifully into the box and headed home to give the Raiders a 2-0 lead at 36:42.  Superior persevered and the score remained 2-0 at halftime.

Unfortunately, Superior could not break into the Hudson defense.  While there were moments of great play, too many mistakes against a very clinical Raiders team was the story.  Hudson scored in the 48th, 56th, and 67th minutes of the second half to easily control the final outcome, 5-0.  Bachand still played great in goal and finished with 15 saves.  Superior did end up with 5 shots on goal, including 3 from senior captain Spencer Kidd, but none got past the Hudson defense or goalie.  The Spartans season ends at 18-3-1 and the furthest we have ever advanced in the WIAA playoffs.  

What an amazing season it was.  While we are saddened that it has officially come to an end, we will continue to look back with pride and joy on what great memories we have from this team.  We thank our 9 seniors who have played their final high school game and have had such a great impact on our program.  More highlights and memories to come.  The team will be having our annual paintball party on Friday and will be gathering for a postseason banquet on Sunday, November 8th.  We will continue to post and share some post season awards and thoughts and then begin looking towards the 2027 season!

But for now - we thank our Spartan boys soccer team for one heck of a ride.  Congrats on the winningest season in school history and some awesome memories.  And thank you to all our parents/families/supporters who followed us all along the way.  Let's go Spartans!