The North Dakota High School Activities Association’s girls soccer state quarterfinals unfolded across the western part of the state on Tuesday, delivering a mix of early drama and decisive results.
Quarterfinal Action
Minot High opened the scoring in the 17th minute when Kaylee Jackson slipped a low strike past the Sheyenne keeper, giving the Magpies a 1‑0 edge. Sheyenne answered in the 49th minute, leveling the contest, and struck the winner in the 77th minute to seal a 2‑1 victory. Kynsli Gillmore made nine saves for Minot High, while Reese Shotley turned in 11 for Sheyenne. The Minot High roster also featured Ainsley McKibben and Tenley McMenamy, who contributed to the midfield battle, and Kaylie Gaffney appeared on the bench. Minot High held a 12‑11 edge in shots on goal.
Minot North, despite a steady first half that kept the game level for 37 minutes, collapsed after the break, conceding four unanswered goals. Taylor Hodny, Myah Nicola, Reese Remz and Havyn Boespflug found the net for Red River, while Camryn Guy made seven saves for Minot North and Finn Anderson stopped four shots for Red River. Ella Bry and other teammates fought hard but could not stem the tide.
In the other quarterfinal, Mandan edged Fargo Davies 1‑0, with Sarah Helderop delivering the decisive strike in the 51st minute. Fargo Shanley dispatched Jamestown 3‑1, as Molly Flaherty netted two goals.
Looking Ahead
Both Minot High and Minot North will meet in consolation fixtures before the season concludes, while Mandan prepares for a semifinal showdown. The tournament’s momentum now shifts to the semifinal round, where the remaining teams will battle for the championship title.