Despite a sound defensive performance, in which the Wildcats held Hollidaysburg scoreless through the first hour of game time, they surrendered a late goal and that proved to be the difference. Micah Blake found the back of the net in the 61st minute and the Golden Tigers held on from there, defeating Central Mountain 1-0 to advance to the title.

“It was a great game on both sides,” said Central Mountain coach Billy Hook following the loss. “It’s a tough loss but not one to be too upset about. Hollidaysburg only lost to some very good teams, and it showed in the big moments. They are a very good program, and I respect them a lot.”

The Wildcats had opportunities to pull off that coveted, lead-taking or game-tying score, having three scenarios where they had a one-versus-one matchup against Hollidaysburg’s goalie, along with a few other opportunities. But each time, the team fell short, as the Golden Tigers were able to effectively finish the shut out.

TIM WEIGHT/Special to the Sun-Gazette Central Mountain puts pressure on Hollidaysburg during Wednesday's game.

Nonetheless, Hook was proud of the team for putting forth a great effort, especially on the defensive side of the field.

“Defensively, we played very well, and same in the midfield,” said Hook on the effort. “Attack was very good. It was that final piece that just haunted us all season and unfortunately, it’s what ended it tonight.”

At the tail end of a grueling season filled with great HAC-I opponents, the Wildcats finished with a 7-9-3 record. With plenty of pieces from this year’s semifinal squad set to return for next season, Hook is optimistic when it comes to the near future.

“We bring back a lot. We lose six seniors, who are all very important to the team. But we bring back a ton of guys for next year and I know some of our juniors and sophomores were big parts of our successes this year,” said Hook. “I’m expecting them to grow another year and hopefully, come back with a chip on their shoulder.”

Hollidaysburg 1, Central Mountain 0

TIM WEIGHT/Special to the Sun-Gazette Central Mountain's Max Verrelli goes after a ball against Hollidaysburg.

(DISTRICT 6 CLASS AAA SEMIFINALS)

H–Blake (Arbogast), 20:49.

Shots: CM 7, H 7. Saves: CM 6 (Jaggar Pardoe), H 7 (Jancula).

Records: Central Mountain (7-9-3), Hollidaysburg (15-3-1).

TIM WEIGHT/Special to the Sun-Gazette Central Mountain competes against Hollidaysburg during Wednesday's District 6 Class AAA semifinal.