The Mattawan Wildcats boys lacrosse team punched their ticket to the regional final with a decisive 14-6 victory over Harper Creek on Wednesday night.
The win sets up a Tuesday matchup against Portage Northern at Mattawan High School for the regional championship, according to WWMT NewsChannel 3.
A Slow Start, Then a Surge
The game began with neither team scoring in the first 12 minutes. Harper Creek broke the deadlock with five minutes remaining in the first quarter, taking a 1-0 lead.
Mattawan answered quickly. The Wildcats scored three goals before the quarter ended and never trailed again.
Portage Northern Also Advances
In the other regional semifinal game, Portage Northern rallied from a deficit to defeat Lakeview 11-9. The Huskies trailed 7-6 heading into the final quarter before outscoring the Spartans 5-2 in the fourth to complete the comeback.
Postseason Stakes
Harper Creek finished the season with an 8-10 record. Lakeview ended at 11-9. Both teams were eliminated from MHSAA postseason play.
Mattawan enters the regional final with a 10-6 overall record. Portage Northern arrives at 9-8.
The regional championship game is scheduled for Tuesday at Mattawan High School, according to WWMT.
"It was a great effort from the team to come out strong in the second half and control the game," WWMT reported on the semifinal results.
The Mattawan program has been a consistent competitor in the Southwestern Michigan Athletic Conference, and the regional final offers a chance to extend their postseason run.
Both teams will need to bring their best for Tuesday's showdown. The winner advances to the next round of state playoffs.