The 2026 Clear Fork Colts girls soccer season concluded with a 2-1 loss to Liberty Benton in the Division IV regional semifinals at Frost-Kalnow Stadium in Tiffin. Despite holding a halftime lead, the Colts could not withstand a second-half surge from the Tigers, who scored twice to seal the victory. The defeat snapped the team’s postseason run but left the squad with a commendable 16-3-2 overall record, a testament to their resilience against a backdrop of persistent challenges throughout the year.
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Maci Roberts struck first for Clear Fork, converting an assist from Brea Bieri to give the Colts the early advantage. However, Liberty Benton’s defensive adjustments and attacking pressure in the second half proved decisive, allowing the visitors to overturn the deficit. Coach Brittany Bechtel emphasized that while the final score stung, the manner in which her team competed defined their legacy. “We went down fighting and I am happy for the season these seniors enjoyed,” Bechtel stated, highlighting the emotional weight of the moment for a group she has coached since they were seven years old.
This season was marked by relentless adversity, yet the Colts were defined by their refusal to quit. As the final whistle blew, the players walked off the pitch with a mix of sorrow and profound appreciation for their collective journey. Bechtel noted the unique peace that comes with such a hard-fought conclusion, praising the seniors for “going down swinging” and finishing “one heck of a year.” The team’s ability to maintain composure and competitive spirit despite constant setbacks ensures they will be remembered for their character as much as their results.
Source: Yahoo Sports
