Titans clinch West Region Championship

CENTRALIA, Wash. — Tacoma Community College (14-1-3, 11-0-2) secured a decisive 7-2 victory over Centralia College (6-4-4, 5-4-4) on Saturday at Bob Peters Field, with Tacoma scoring four goals in the first half.

Tacoma capitalized on offensive opportunities to take a 4-2 lead by the end of the first half. Railee Hutton found the net twice, scoring in the 11th and 29th minutes, each time assisted by Emma Hoover, which set the early momentum. Tacoma's Laura Corr added two goals, with her first in the 34th minute and second in the 37th, extending the visitor's advantage. Centralia managed to close the gap with goals from Eva Figueroa and Krysta Hook, but Tacoma's persistent attack maintained their lead.

Tacoma extended its lead early in the second half with a goal by Melanie Rojas-Perez in the 52nd minute. The Titans continued to press, earning three corner kicks in the span of three minutes, one of which led to Madison Coulter's goal in the 61st minute, assisted by Kali Ginnis. Jayme Gieger added a final goal in the 84th, assisted by Coulter, sealing a decisive 7-2 victory for Tacoma. This win clinched the NWAC West Region championship, marking Coach Jill Green's first-ever region championship.

Corr led the team with two goals and five shots on goal, including the game-winning goal. Hutton added two goals and contributed four total shots, three of which were on target. Coulter recorded a goal and provided two assists, showcasing her playmaking ability. Gieger also found the back of the net, converting her single shot into a goal.

Hook and Figueroa each contributed one goal for Centralia. Hook's three shots included two on goal, while Figueroa's efforts were efficient with one shot resulting in a goal. Maylania Mikaele provided a key assist and maintained pressure with two shots on target. Goalkeeper Brooklynn Alkire faced significant opposition, recording five saves out of 12 shots faced, with three saves in the first half and two in the second. Anna Souja also added an assist, contributing to the Trailblazers' offensive efforts.

Tacoma improves to 14-1-3 overall and 11-0-2 in conference play. Centralia holds a record of 6-4-4 overall and 5-4-4 in conference competition.

The next challenge for the Titans will see them travel to Olympia, WA, on October 29 to face S. Puget Sound. The match is set to begin at 3:30 p.m.

Go Titans!