PCM soccer opens postseason play with rout of Panorama

The Mustangs endured the wind and rain on Tuesday to secure a home first round playoff win against the Panorama Panthers.

The final score in the Class 1A Substate 7 opener was 9-2. It was the first home playoff win in program history.

PCM’s Jaxson Strait led the way with a career-high six goals. The score was 6-0 at halftime.

“Early on, we took control of the game and competed as a team,” PCM head coach Darrin Telfer said. “We communicated well, and we took charge early and didn’t let up.”

In the final 40 minutes, PCM tacked on three more goals, making the score 9-0.

With the game fully in control, Panorama began playing with more physicality, and scored two goals of its own to end the game.

“I’m really happy for the kids for this win,” Telfer said. “They’ve worked hard and had a tough schedule. We’ve had some games where we didn’t really perform the way I thought we could, but this was different. There’s just a lot of laughter and smiles, and just satisfaction that their work has paid off throughout the season.”

The Mustangs next face 1A No. 8 West Central Valley at 7 p.m. on Tuesday in Stuart. The Wildcats are 14-0-1 and the highest seed in Class 1A Substate 7.

“To win, we’ll have to attack the ball well and get the first touch,” Telfer said. “We’ll have to play disciplined and patient, then aggressive at the right time. If we try to do too much, we’ll be in trouble.”