The Northwest Conference delivered a weekend of high‑stakes soccer as three teams battled in state semifinal matches, producing dramatic results that have set the stage for the championship round.
Squalicum’s Dominant 3‑0 Victory
Squalicum faced Columbia River in the 2A semifinals and secured a 3‑0 win, with Crew Johnson opening the scoring in the 11th minute, Olivar Hoglin adding a corner‑kick goal in the 60th minute, and Cody McCaulley sealing the result in the dying seconds.
The Storm will meet Bainbridge in the championship game scheduled for 2:45 p.m. on Saturday, aiming to capture the title.
Meridian’s Surprise Upset
In the 1A bracket, the 12‑seed Meridian upset Wahluke 1‑0, Dakota Ng striking the decisive goal in the 20th minute.
Meridian now prepares for a showdown with Vashon Island at 5 p.m. on Saturday, hoping to extend their fairy‑tale run.
Sehome’s Narrow Defeat
Sehome opened the scoring against Bainbridge, with Kevin Schroeder finding the net in the eighth minute, but Bainbridge answered before halftime, taking a 2‑1 lead in the final minute of the first half.
Goalkeeper Bane Mitchell made countless saves for Sehome, including a diving stop from Mason Ivcevic in the 60th minute, yet could not prevent the loss.
The team will contest the third‑place match against Columbia River at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday.