Strong second half powers Tacoma to 8-2 Win

CENTRALIA, Wash. — Tacoma (11-4-4, 9-2-3) defeated Centralia College 8-2 on Saturday at Bob Peters Field, powered by a second-half surge of six goals.

Tacoma took control early in the first half with Bennett Erickson scoring in the 10th minute, assisted by Taylor Duffek, setting the tone for the period. Tacoma maintained pressure with Kuan-Lin Chen adding a second goal in the 40th minute, assisted by Taylor Pierce, despite Centralia College's efforts to counter, including a yellow card on Owen Jacobs. Tacoma's defense, anchored by Andrew Wagenblatt, held Centralia to no goals, preserving a 2-0 lead at the half.

Tacoma surged ahead early in the second period with Taylor Pierce scoring at the 49:15 mark, assisted by Nathan Coyle, and quickly extended the lead. Tacoma capitalized with six goals in the half, including a penalty kick by Pierce in the 71st minute and a late goal by Takumi Sugihara in the 83rd minute. Despite the Trailblazers' attempts to respond, including a goal from Mario Silva Gutierre, Tacoma maintained their strong offensive performance, closing the period up 8-2.

Pierce delivered a standout performance with three goals, including the game-winner, and added an assist to his tally. Chen contributed with a goal and an assist, showcasing his efficiency with two shots on goal from three attempts. Duffek was instrumental in the attack, scoring once and providing two assists, with his only shot being on target. Bryan Dickson Masau found the net once, converting his sole shot of the match.

Silva Gutierre contributed significantly with one goal and one assist, leading the offensive effort for Centralia. Orlando Benavidez Jr. also found the back of the net, converting his only shot into a goal. In goal, Rico Ewell recorded eight saves while facing 16 shots, showcasing his defensive contributions. Fernando Lopez added an assist, rounding out the key performances in the match.

Tacoma holds an 11-4-4 overall record and stands at 9-2-3 in conference play. The Trailblazers are now 2-16-1 overall with a 2-12-1 record in conference play.

Looking ahead, Tacoma will travel to Lacey, WA, to face S. Puget Sound on Wednesday, Oct. 29. The match is set for a 1:30 p.m. kickoff.

Go Titans!