One more game.
This Liberty girls soccer team has certainly had their share of accomplishments. Now, they’ve got one game left to determine if they can get the biggest one of all: a state title.
“From our goalkeeper all the way to the front, we’re gelling,” said Liberty coach Jamie Giger. “We came out tonight and stuck with the game plan.”
The Patriots (18-1) continued their dominating season by beating Eastside Catholic 1-0 Friday in the semifinals of the 3A state tournament at Sparks Stadium in Puyallup.
“The most important thing is we’re playing defense,” Giger said.
Liberty has not trailed in the state tournament, and has allowed just one goal – to Columbia River in the opening round.
The Patriots struck in the 16th minute against the Crusaders when Cassidy Nangle passed up the right side to Kailiana Johnson, who dribbled across the middle and sank a shot.
“We were playing kind of hectic at first,” said senior Kimi Fry. “But we settled down and it feels great to make Liberty history.”
Liberty kept the pressure on through much of the game, racking the near misses.
“We created a lot, it was just one of those nights where you struggle to get it in the net,” Giger said. “You’ve got to give their keeper credit, she made some amazing saves.”
The Crusaders made one last effort with a big push in the final minute. Eastside had a corner kick with about 20 seconds left, but a header sailed just right.
“All the different situations are popping in my head,” Fry said. “But we just powered through.”
Liberty faces Seattle Prep (19-0-2) in the 3A state championship game Saturday at 2 p.m. at Sparks Stadium. It is the first time in the school’s history that the girls soccer team has made a state final.