Earlier today, the CORE Butte soccer team opened the Pioneer League playoffs with a strong 5–1 win over Portola. It was the third time the two teams faced each other this season, and the third straight win for CORE Butte.

The Lynx went into halftime up 3–1 after controlling possession and setting the pace early. CORE Butte’s passing and ball movement looked sharp throughout the match, consistently breaking through Portola’s defense. They added two more goals in the second half to put the game away, finishing with a comfortable four-goal lead.

Head Coach Jason Spears said afterward that he was proud of the team’s effort on both sides of the ball. “Our passing and ball movement was great,” Spears said. “We out-hustled them and created far more opportunities than they did. We played a good all-around game.”

The win moves CORE Butte further into the playoffs as they continue their push through the Pioneer League bracket. This Tuesday, they will travel to face Quincy.