Vilaverde’s hat trick powers Cruisers past Foss

The Eatonville Cruisers boys’ soccer team experienced both ends of the spectrum this past week, responding to an early-season setback with a statement league victory before running into a tough result on the road two days later.

Eatonville's Gui Vilaverde (#1) battles with a Bethel player from the team's match against Bethel earlier in the season. Vilaverde's hat trick helped power the Cruisers to a 6-1 win over Foss this past week. Photo: Heather Quirie

After opening the season with a 4-0 non-league loss to Bethel, Eatonville regrouped quickly under new head coach Mark Phillips. The response came Tuesday, March 17, in the team’s first 2A SPSL league match of the season against Foss, where the Cruisers delivered a complete and disciplined performance in a 6-1 win.

From the opening whistle, Eatonville set the tone. Crisp passing, organized movement, and sustained pressure allowed the Cruisers to take firm control early. By halftime, they had built a commanding 4-0 lead, effectively putting the match out of reach.

Gui Vilaverde was the centerpiece of the attack, turning in a standout performance with a hat trick. He consistently found space behind the Foss defense and finished with confidence, showing both composure and attacking instinct throughout the match. Each of his goals reflected a different strength, from positioning to timing to clinical execution in front of goal.

Behind him, the Cruisers displayed a balanced offensive effort. Ben Bernt added a goal and contributed an assist, while Aiden Combs and Jake Brannon each found the back of the net. Brannon’s goal came from the penalty spot, where he converted calmly to extend Eatonville’s lead.

Playmaking was just as sharp. Nate Christiansen recorded two assists, helping drive the attack and connect play in the final third. Eli Rivera added another assist as Eatonville continued to create chances with consistency and purpose.

By the 31st minute of the second half, the Cruisers had pushed their advantage to 6-0. Despite the lopsided scoreline, Eatonville showed restraint.

“We don't score more than 6 against any opponent as we find that to be degrading and lacking in sportsmanship,” Phillips said.

Foss managed to break through late in the second half for a goal, but it did little to change the overall flow. Eatonville maintained possession, stayed organized defensively, and closed out the match with control.

It was the kind of performance Phillips had been looking for early in his tenure. The Cruisers combined discipline, creativity, and relentless pressure, turning in a full team effort that showcased their potential in league play.

Riding that momentum, Eatonville traveled to Trojan Memorial Stadium on Thursday, March 19, for another 2A SPSL matchup against Fife. This time, the outcome swung sharply in the opposite direction.

The Trojans controlled the match from start to finish, handing the Cruisers an 8-0 loss. Eatonville struggled to find rhythm or sustain possession, and Fife capitalized with consistent pressure and efficient finishing.

The quick turnaround from a dominant win to a difficult loss highlighted the early-season challenges facing a developing squad under a new coaching staff. For Phillips and the Cruisers, the week offered both encouragement and a clear picture of the work still ahead.

Eatonville will look to respond when it returns to the pitch Tuesday, March 24, traveling to Cardinal Stadium for a 2A SPSL matchup against Franklin Pierce. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.