Led by Maya Davis’ two goals and two assists, the Prairie girls soccer team defeated Timberline of Lacey 5-1 Tuesday to earn a berth to the 3A state playoffs.
The victory advances Prairie to the semifinals of the 3A bi-district tournament, 5 p.m. Saturday at Lacey’s South Sound Stadium.
Alyssa Talkington scored a pair of goals as well, including the initial score on a 30th minute strike.
It took nearly 20 minutes for the Falcons to find their rhythm, though it was all Prairie from that point forward.
Savannah Harshbarger hit the post, followed by a string of corner kicks that Prairie was able to make first contact with. After Malaika Quigley’s shot went just over the crossbar, Talkington recovered the ensuing possession and found the side netting on a far post rip.
“We wanted this game. It’s our home turf, we didn’t want to lose,” Talkington said.
Five minutes later, Davis added another after Macey Hall found her wide open at the top of the 18-yard line.
Timberline’s Arianna Bush was able to trim the lead just before halftime and although the players knew the lead wasn’t safe, the damage was done.
“Knowing they can get a goal on us with a simple breakaway is a little scary,” Malaika Quigley said. “You want to get those extra goals to be safe.”
Michael Thyron’s squad wasn’t able to add to their lead until halfway through the second period when Davis’ shot from 18 found slipped past the Timberline keeper.
“My dad said before the game ‘you need to be a difference-maker,’ ” Davis said. “I felt especially this game it was really important for us to win this one.”
Talkington would score again with Paige Darley’s goal all but sealing the victory.
Thyron was awarded coach of the year for the 3A Greater St. Helens League prior to the match.
Thyron knows he owes credit to his team and values effort above all else.
No player exhibited more effort Tuesday than Davis.
“She’s a worker bee, that’s her strength,” Thyron said. “She just never gives up. She was razor sharp today, she’s a great little player and we’re lucky to have her.”
