A look at the Belgrade boy's soccer team...

Four years ago, 10 freshmen tried out for the Belgrade high school soccer team.

Nine of those kids have grown to become senior leaders of the Panthers that are just a win away from the Montana state championship game.

"We've had more wins than we've ever had before as a program," head coach Ric Plante said.

The team was just a tie away from the Eastern A conference, but was able overcome an 0-3 postseason record in the pass to defeat Stevensville last weekend 1-0 at home. At 8-4-1, they stand in the way of the Polson Pirates and state championship glory.

Earlier this season, the Pirates traveled to play Belgrade, losing 1-0, but the team was going through offensive woes that they've since remedied.

"It was a good match," Plante said. "The match could have good either way. I think we're pretty equal teams on the field."

Plante went on to say that the playoffs offer a different level of energy.

"I think you can throw out that first game," Plante said. "You can't duplicate that pressure of prepare for it."

The Pirates are no strangers to pressure, tied with Corvallis 1-1 in their first round game at home and then pulling it out with a clutch goal with five minutes to go in the game. At 9-3-1, Polson has used a smothering defense all year anchored by junior Clay Frissell. A midfield/forwards combination from seniors Sean Hart and Trever Moll has been downright scary, but it still remains a somewhat young team.

Belgrade on the other hand, has plenty of experience.

"It's four years in the making," Plante said. "These kids have worked extremely hard."

Polson will host Belgrade on Saturday at 2 p.m.