Raider Soccer earns playoff berth with decisive win over Tacoma
November 8, 2005 @ 1:49 pm
For the first time since the 2000 season, the Pierce College Men's Soccer team has earned a berth into the playoffs of the Northwest Athletic Association of Community Colleges. In a must win game against crosstown rival Tacoma CC, the Raiders overcame a driving rain and mud-soaked field to defeat the Titans 3-0. The win moved Pierce past TCC into third place in the South Division, to take the final playoff berth, and ending Tacoma's season. The Raiders were led by a strong defensive that stifled every Tacoma attack, earning a shutout for Pierce goalkeeper Stephen Biddinger. Offensively, the Raiders took advantage of first half goals by Michael Holmes and J'Maar Aina to take a 2-0 half time lead. Francis Carvalho scored Pierce's third goal midway through the second half and sealing the victory.
“This win is a perfect analogy to our season. We have had to overcome some difficult times and what better way to do it than to peak at the right in a 'must-win' situation," said Coach Dan Hicker following the match. " I am looking forward to seeing how many heads we can turn in the post-season!”
The Raiders enter the first round of the playoffs on the road this Wednesday, November 9, at Peninsula College (Port Angeles), the #2 team for the West Division. A victory on Wednesday would pit Pierce against Walla Walla CC, the top team in the East who is undefeated this season.
Congratulations to Head Coach Dan Hicker (a member of Pierce's 2000 playoff team), Manager Dominck Cusato, and all of the members of the Raider Men's Soccer team.
GO RAIDERS!!
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