A win, 3 points, would clinch second place in the Northwest Division and qualify the Tacoma Tide for the playoffs. A win would put the Tide into the post-season for the first time in their short history, and players, coaches, and fans could celebrate. Well, the players decided to start the celebration early at Curtis High School Stadium Saturday night.

Intentions were made obvious right from the start when Rafael Cox crossed in a head ball to Machael David. The 5’7, David, rose and headed home for the goal. From there the Tide cruised on. They dominated possession and it yielded one more tally before halftime. Beau Macaluso, and early substitute for Taylor Cochran (received stitches in forehead after catching an elbow), picked up a loose ball in the box and knocked it home for his 2nd goal of the season.

The second half was all Tacoma. Thanks to a few very nice saves from Goal Keeper Daniel Prichard, the clean sheet held as the attacks flourished. Ciaran O’Brien was spreading passes all over the pitch. Rory Agu and Chase Tangney were the beneficiaries. First off, Tangney received a pass from O’Brien. When faced with a one on one, Tangney made the unselfish play and passed across the face of goal to Rory Agu for the goal. Later, Tangney got his own as he shot home in the 79th minute. In between the Agu goal (74th minute) and the Tangney goal (79th), Ciaran O’Brien hit another stunning free kick. Over the wall and off the keeper’s fingertips for a goal in the 77th minute.

photos courtesy of Yellowfans.com

Smiles all around as the Tacoma Tide clinch a playoff spot. Their opponent is yet to be determined. It will be one of the top two teams from the Southwest Division. The playoffs begin July 27th, and the location will be known sometime this week. Prior to the playoffs, the Tide will play vs the Sounders on Tuesday, July 17th, Thursday vs the Spokane Spiders, and Saturday vs the Abbotsford Rangers. Each game is on the road.