Masen Lessard’s late goal gives Pirate Boys Soccer a win over Morris Area

The Crookston Pirate Boys Soccer team played an incredible defensive game, and their efforts were rewarded with a goal by Masen Lessard with under six minutes remaining, and that was enough to give the Pirates a 1-0 win in their 2026 season opener over the Morris Area Tigers.

FIRST HALF –
It took a few minutes for either team to get going in the first half, but after the tenth minute, Morris Area gathered some momentum by showcasing their foot-to-ball skills and creating opportunities. However, that would amount to nothing, as Pirate senior Colton Osborn put together a great game in net. He made four saves in the first 15 minutes, and the fourth kicked off a rush for the Pirates, their first of the game. This led to a great shot, but it hit the left post, keeping the game scoreless. Osborn made two more saves in the half, but the Pirates couldn’t get the ball back on net, and the game remained scoreless headed into the second half.

SECOND HALF –
In the second half, the Pirates got off to a much better start, attacking Tiger goalkeeper William Coler immediately. Crookston got the ball a lot more often to Masen Lessard, and he just barely missed a header in the first three minutes of the half. The Pirate defense improved as well, as they kept the ball away from Osborn a lot better, forcing him to just make two saves throughout the half. With just under 20 minutes to go, Aiden DeLage delivered a shot that nearly went through the hands of Coler, but he was able to hold on. With six minutes remaining, the game was still scoreless. That is, until Masen Lessard got the ball, split the defense and beat Coler in net, scoring the difference maker to put Crookston up 1-0. The defense continued to hold firm, and the Pirates held on to take a 1-0 victory.

Crookston starts the season 1-0, while Morris Area starts 0-1.