Wasilla Lake Christian finishes 5th in state co-ed soccer tourney

PALMER — Wasilla Lake Christian School capped its state tournament with an exciting finish.

Four of Wasilla Lake’s five shooters found the back of the net during a penalty kick shootout, and the Rams scored a 3-2 win over Holy Rosary during the final day of the ASAA Co-Ed State Soccer Tournament Saturday at the Sherrod Soccer Complex in Palmer.

Brandon Stiner, Anna Lene-Thorn, Sammy Latta and Braden Thorn all scored during the penalty kick shootout to help the Rams post the victory. Thorn, who also played in goal during the shootout, recorded two saves.

Playing in the field during regulation, Thorn scored in the first half to give the Rams the 1-0 lead. Holy Rosary scored later in the match to tie the score and force overtime. In extra time, John Stiner gave the Rams the 2-1 lead. But Holy Rosary was once again able to tie the score and force the shootout.

The Rams finished 1-1-1 in pool play, and 2-1-1 overall in the tourney. After opening play with a 3-3 tie with Tri Valley on Thursday, the Rams split a pair of matches on Friday.

Wasilla Lake scored a 2-1 win over Nenana Friday morning. Thorn and Jake Palmberg scored goals for Wasilla Lake. Cook Inlet Academy, which went on to win the state title, beat Wasilla Lake later in the day Friday.

Brandon Stiner was selected all-state tournament after the event. Braden Thorn was named to the all-defensive team. Braden Thorn and Maddie Fuller were both named All-Conference.

Fuller, Latta and Jack Willson were named all-academic.