Submitted by Athletic Director Ryan Wilson.

In a game that Viking head coach Terry Turner called one of the most exciting, grueling and competitive matches in the 20-year history of the boys’ high school soccer team, Orcas Island (16-1) shut out Mount Vernon Christian (13-5) 1-0 on Friday, Nov. 9 to earn a berth in the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association state final four.

“To win at this level of competition, you have to play as a team, and execute at all positions,” said Turner. “This team has worked hard to prepare for this all through the offseason, regular season and tri-district playoffs this year, they have very high expectations and are extremely motivated. And it certainly doesn’t hurt to have some of the outstanding defending, goalkeeping and scoring this team has brought in the postseason.”

Highlights of Friday’s quarterfinal win included several spectacular clutch-saves by goalkeeper Kapono Anuenue, tireless running, passing and pressure from Orcas’ midfielders Leo Van Putten, William Garcia and outside backs Douglas Ha and Tomas Holmes. The winning goal came midway through the second half on a swerving pinpoint accurate blast from 22 yards out by midfielder Levi Moss.

“We knew this would probably be the hardest match so far,” said assistant coach Baturay Balic. “We beat MVC twice during the regular season, but it is hard to beat a good team three times in a season. That’s why we practiced every detail. But tactics alone aren’t enough in these kinds of matches without hustle and determination. This team deserves a lot of respect because they gave 100 percent and earned the right to compete for the state title. The ‘win or go home’ victory follows an unprecedented 2018 regular season in which the Orcas boys have been undefeated, and in the process have posted an impressive overall 16-1 record, scoring 101 goals and allowing only 11 against in all competitions.”

The Viking squad will next play in the state semi-final game on Friday, Nov. 16, at Sunset Chevrolet Stadium in Sumner, Washington. Kick-off is at 8 p.m. The state final and third-place match are on Saturday, Nov. 17. Loyal Viking fans of all ages are encouraged to make travel plans and ferry reservations to come and support the mighty Orcas Vikings.