DeForest Set to Play in D2 Final

The #1 seed DeForest Norskies took on #4 seed Homestead in the D2 state semifinals Friday night. Both these teams appeared in last season’s state tournament. Both of whom being eliminated in the semi-final.

The game started off slow, with DeForest dominating the ball and creating lots of opportunities in the first half. This shot from Blake Lovesick (#12) was the Norskies’ best opportunity in the first half. Homestead’s goalkeeper Colin Yorulmazaglu (#1) made a crucial save to keep the game level.

The first half eventually game to an end at 0-0.

In the second half, however, Homestead got on the board first with a distinguished finish from junior defender Braedyn Frahm. With an energized crowd on their side, the Highlanders looked to increase their lead. However, DeForest had other plans; In the 53rd minute, this shot on goal from Brad Powers (#18) trickled into the back of the net for a Norskie equalizer.

Powers gave DeForest all the momentum going into the last 30 minutes of the game. With it tied at one goal each, the Highlanders were given a dangerous free kick deep into the final third.

A potential 2-0 lead was erased with this goal being disallowed by the center referee. This play kept the momentum in favor of DeForest. Just two minutes later, Landon Adams (#9) took the game into his own hands.

DeForest were able to hold onto their 2-1 lead in the final ten minutes of the match to secure their spot in the state tournament. They will face #2 seed Whitefish Bay in the final tomorrow night at 7:00pm.

Here’s a post game interview with the goalscorer, Landon Adams, about their team’s performance and preparation going into championship Saturday.