Comets Gel Together, Shut Out Crookston, and Set Their Sights on Pelican Rapids

The Comets boys' soccer team continues to prove that unity and discipline are its secret weapons. The Comets defeated the Crookston Pirates 2–0 on Thursday at Danielsen Field in the Section 8A Quarterfinals, earning their ninth shutout of the season and showcasing a team that’s gelling tighter with every match.

Just four minutes into the game, senior captain Lincoln Nash pushed the ball wide from midfield to Pedro Pereira on the left sideline. Pereira connected with senior captain Zane Holmquist, who skillfully chipped a shot over the Pirate keeper to put the Comets on the board early.

Crookston pressed hard in the second half, but Hillcrest’s composure and communication held firm. When the Pirates were called for a handball in the box 65 minutes in, Comet striker Marco Salazar calmly buried the penalty kick to secure the 2–0 victory.

The Comets tallied ten shots on goal while limiting Crookston to just one—an impressive defensive performance that underscores their growing chemistry and trust on the field.

“Charlie Eggiman, Kian Stender, Gabriel Mazon, Caleb Holm, and Silas Haugstvedt all had an excellent game on the defensive end of the Comet field,” noted Head Coach Rod Jensen.

Now sitting at 12–1–3, the Comets advance to the Section 8A Semifinal on Saturday, where they’ll host the Pelican Rapids Vikings, a team known for their energy, physical play, and relentless attack. The matchup promises to be an electric showdown at Danielsen Field. The Vikings’ intensity will test Hillcrest’s back line and challenge their strikers to stay resilient and opportunistic.

But the Comets have proven all season long that they’re up for the task. With a cohesive defense, quick transitions, and an attack that continues to find rhythm, Hillcrest looks poised for another defining performance as they chase a berth in the Section Final, and a shot at one of the top teams in the state.