Just two years removed from a two-win season, Timberline earned a berth in the 3A state girls soccer tournament after its 1-0 victory over Prairie at Sunset Chev Stadium. It’s the Blazers’ first state berth since 1991, when the record-setting goal-scorer Jody Dutra was a starting forward for Timberline.
“There were a lot of tears of joy from a lot of players,” Peltier said. “It’s an amazing feeling. It’s just such a credit to this team with so many young kids.”
In 2009, the Blazers suffered through a 2-14 season with both victories coming over North Thurston in league play. Since then, the Blazers have finished third in the 3A Narrows League in 2010 and ’11.
Jordan Meyer’s penalty-kick goal in the 59th minute was the golden goal for Timberline. Peltier credited his team’s defense and freshmen midfielders Casey Whitt and Jade Castanada for shutting down the passing lanes for Prairie, which defeated Timberline, 2-1, at last year’s district tournament game.
Timberline freshman goalkeeper Hailey Holder had 10 saves before leaving the game with six minutes remaining after getting injury on a collision with a Prairie player.
The Blazers have a tough first-round matchup Wednesday. They’ll face defending 3A state champion Seattle Prep.
“We’re right where we want to be,” Peltier said. “It’s a great time for us.”
