On a cold, damp evening with temperatures hovering around 30 degrees, the Boulder High Panthers took to the field against Fountain Fort-Carson in the first round of the 5A Boys Soccer State Championships. Despite the slick conditions, Boulder overcame a nervy opening five minutes, quickly finding their rhythm and asserting their quality on both ends of the pitch to secure an 8-0 win.

The breakthrough came in the 9th minute when Grant Sims struck with a powerful right-footed shot, opening the scoring and settling the Panthers. From there, Boulder took control, showcasing a fluid passing game that moved the ball effectively through the lines. Despite the testing field conditions, their midfield and forward lines circulated the ball, finding the openings to create chance after chance.

In a first half that saw Boulder at their best, Mikel Mackey joined Sims on the scoresheet, along with Xander Sevian, who netted twice, and David Bojorquez, who added a memorable goal after an impressive solo effort. Bojorquez finished with a precise shot to the top corner, while Joss Hair rounded off the half with a classic high finish, leaving Boulder 6-0 up at the break. To their credit, Fountain Fort-Carson battled admirably and showed great sportsmanship throughout.

The second half began with a bang, as Joaxin Castruita struck a stunning 35-yard shot just seven seconds in, a goal sure to be remembered as one of the season's finest. Xander Sevian, later named Boulder's Player of the Game, completed his hat trick with about 20 minutes remaining, sealing the victory for the Panthers.

Coach Hardy Kalisher looked to the bench to see out the game, resting his starters and maintaining focus on keeping a clean sheet. Goalkeeper Aden Heath, though only called into action twice, kept Boulder's goal secure, recording another shutout for the season.

With the win, Boulder advances to the Sweet 16, where they will host No. 18 Horizon High School on Tuesday, November 5th, at 7:00 PM at Boulder High. The first round of the 5A Boys Soccer State Championships has already seen several lower-seeded teams cause surprises. Of the 16 games, four produced upsets, with No. 18 Horizon, No. 19 Valor Christian, No. 23 Fort Collins, and No. 24 Grandview advancing. Meanwhile, No. 11 Liberty vs. No. 22 Erie was postponed to Saturday due to weather, and No. 16 Pine Creek and No. 17 Cherokee Trail will play today.

As the tournament progresses, Boulder will look to carry this performance into the Sweet 16, with sights firmly set on continuing their journey through the championship.

Check Out Game Photos