MISSOULA, Mont. - Montana delivered a commanding 4-0 victory over Weber State on Thursday evening, powered by Reagan Brisendine's second-half brace and strong performances across the pitch. The Grizzlies (8-3-3) extended their unbeaten streak to three matches while handing the Wildcats (8-6) their second consecutive loss.
Maycen Slater opened the scoring for Montana in the 42nd minute, converting an assist from Caylee Kerr to give the hosts a 1-0 lead heading into halftime. The Grizzlies then exploded in the second half, with Brisendine finding the net twice - first in the 59th minute off assists from Taija Anderson and Chloe Seelhoff, then again in the 61st minute with Eliza Bentler providing the setup. Slater completed her brace in the 80th minute, again assisted by Bentler, to seal the emphatic victory.
The first half saw Montana gradually assert control despite Weber State's early pressure. The Wildcats' Grace Kirby tested the Montana defense with a shot in the 8th minute, while Tenzi Knowles struck the woodwork in the 28th minute. Montana's defensive unit, anchored by strong performances from their backline, effectively neutralized Weber State's attack while building momentum going forward.
Montana's dominance became evident after the break, with their attacking trio of Brisendine, Anderson, and Seelhoff creating consistent threats. Weber State's frustration showed when Cadence Packer received a yellow card in the 49th minute. The Grizzlies maintained their attacking pressure, with Liv Thorne-Thomsen and Taija Anderson both forcing saves from the Weber State goalkeeper.
The statistical breakdown reflected Montana's superiority, despite Weber State recording more total shots (15-12). The Grizzlies were more efficient with their opportunities, putting five shots on target compared to Weber State's three. The visitors held a 5-1 advantage in corner kicks, but couldn't convert these set-piece opportunities into meaningful chances.
Individual performances highlighted Montana's team effort, with Brisendine's two-goal performance leading the attack. Eliza Bentler's two assists demonstrated her playmaking ability, while Maycen Slater's brace showcased her clinical finishing. Weber State's Tenzi Knowles and Grace Kirby showed moments of promise, combining for five shots, but couldn't break through Montana's resolute defense.
Tactically, Montana's approach of absorbing Weber State's early pressure before striking on the counter proved effective. The Grizzlies' defensive organization frustrated the Wildcats' attempts to build through the middle, forcing them into less dangerous wide areas. Montana's second-half adjustments, particularly in their pressing intensity, created the turnovers that led to their scoring opportunities.
The victory reinforces Montana's strong position in conference play, extending their unbeaten run to three matches. For Weber State, the loss represents a concerning dip in form following their previous defeat to Portland State, putting pressure on them to rebound quickly to maintain their position in the standings.
Both teams face quick turnarounds with matches on October 12. Montana will host Idaho State looking to extend their unbeaten streak, while Weber State returns home to face Sacramento State, seeking to end their two-game losing skid. The contrasting trajectories of these programs were evident throughout this match, with Montana's clinical finishing and tactical discipline proving the difference in a convincing victory.