Cruiser Boys Soccer Playoff Rollercoaster Ends in District 4 Heartbreak

In the Southwest Washington District 4 playoffs, the Eatonville Cruiser boys’ soccer team faced a rollercoaster of challenges.

Eatonville High School's boy soccer team poses for a team photo after downing the Raymond-South Bend Ravens to stay alive in district play. Unfortunately, their season would come to an end following a defeat in their next match. Photo: Heather Quirie

In the opening round, they confronted the formidable Seton Catholic Cougar team, the top seed from the TriCo League. Despite a valiant effort, the Cruisers fell short, succumbing to a 3-0 defeat, relegating them to the consolation bracket.

With their backs against the wall, Eatonville squared off against familiar adversaries, the Raymond – South Bend Ravens. Having suffered previous defeats at the hands of the Ravens, the Cruisers rallied fiercely, securing a hard-fought 3-2 victory, keeping their dreams of a state tournament berth alive.

Their journey took them to a decisive clash against league rivals, the Montesano Bulldogs, in a winner-to-state/loser-out showdown on the ruthless black turf at Tenino HS. Despite splitting prior encounters, including a recent 3-2 triumph, the Cruisers faltered this time, falling 3-1 and bidding farewell to the tournament, thus concluding their season.

The team capped off the season with an 11-8 overall record. With the departure of seven graduating players, the Cruisers aim to reload for the upcoming season, banking on their existing roster and incoming freshmen to enhance their performance and secure a coveted spot in the state tournament.