Tacoma, WA - Despite the #4 NWAC ranking in the final coaches' poll and an 11-3-4 overall record the Trojans found themselves 3^rd in the North region standings at the conclusion of the regular season, and as such needed to travel to the 2^nd place finishers in the west region standings, the Tacoma Titans. 

The Titans have been an NWAC power in recent years, but the Trojans got the best of TCC earlier in the season back on August 27^th when they put away a statement 4-0 win. 

Tacoma built some momentum winning 4 straight to close out the regular season, and with the home field advantage, anything could happen in the playoffs.  Understanding the need to set the tone early, the visiting Trojans took the wind out of the sails early by scoring a goal within the first four minutes of the match.  Freshman Muhammed Darboe scored his 14^th goal of the season and control of the match was established.  Tacoma got their shots on goal in the first half, but most were easily collected by EvCC goalkeeper Avary Olson who recorded 6 first half saves. 

At the half, Everett held on to the 1-0 lead and settled in defensively.  Tacoma only mustered two shots on frame in the second half, and in the 78^th minute River Stewart headed in the 2^nd goal of the match on a corner kick that was assisted by Luis Carillo. 

The punctuation mark was made when River Stewart again came through with his 2^nd goal of the game and his 26^th goal of the season in the 86^th minute effectively sending EvCC to the quarterfinals.  Stewart has the EVCC all time single season goal record as well as the career record. 

The win marks number 12 on the season for EvCC which is one shy of the single season win record set by the 2019 team, a mark they can reach with a win on Saturday in the quarterfinals.  Everett will face the #1 seed out of the south region, the Lane Titans who finished with a 9-2-3 record on the season.  Everett did not see Lane this season, and only faced one similar opponent in Portland CC.  Everett defeated PCC 4-1 back in August and the Lane Titans defeated Portland in both matches, 2-0 and 1-0.  

Match time is set for 7pm as EvCC will look to down another Titan and advance to the NWAC semi finals for the first time since 1989.