LAUREL – Laurel scored two second-half goals to beat Livingston 3-2 Saturday night, clinching the Eastern A’s final playoff spot in the regular season finalé.
After losing to Billings Central on Thursday, Laurel needed a win or draw against the Rangers to jump the Rams in the standings. Tied 1-1 at half, Laurel’s Jordan Renier deflected a shot into his own net to give Livingston a 2-1 lead in the 67th minute.
But moments later, Laurel earned a penalty kick which Layne Chelgren converted into the top right corner to pull the Locomotives back even at 2-2.
Then late, Gus Crowl fired from 40 yards out, over Livingston’s keeper and under the crossbar for a stunning winner that sealed Laurel’s playoff berth.
The Locomotives will travel to Frenchtown next Saturday in the first round of the State A playoffs. Belgrade won the Eastern A conference, while Livingston finished second.
