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Nursing a one game lead with four games to go, the Tacoma Stars had to match Ontario’s record for the remainder of the season. After the Stars lost their home finale and Ontario dispatched both Turlock and El Paso, the Stars would need to win at least 2 of their remaining three and hope that neither San Diego nor Monterrey (Ontario’s final two opponents) felt like resting up for the playoffs.
The Stars did their part of the bargain, defeating both Dallas and Turlock handily and putting up a good fight against Monterrey. After their final 14-4 victory over Turlock, the Stars had to wait two days for their fate to be determined.
If one thing was apparent in the MASL this season, it was that there would be no resting players for the playoffs from the top teams. San Diego pulled away from Ontario late and Monterrey won a thriller over the Fury as well, putting the Stars into the playoffs against San Diego.
Why the Stars should be worried
The Sockers had the best record in the MASL this season, going 23-1.
Why the Stars have hope
The Sockers’ only loss on the season is to the Tacoma Stars. Danny Waltman is in form and Mike Ramos is on an absolute tear. The Stars only lost by one goal to the Sockers in the home finale, holding the lead for the better part of the first half and almost completing the comeback.
Playoff look ahead:
Game One: Friday April 19 San Diego @ Tacoma 7:35 Accesso ShoWare Center - Kent
Game Two: Saturday April 20th Tacoma @ San Diego 7:00 pm Pechenga Arena - San Diego
IF NECESSARY - Mini Game in San Diego immediately following game two.
Why you should go:
Aside from supporting local professional soccer, the Stars are an exciting team capable of making a run into the playoffs. The action is both fast and fan-friendly with affordable tickets.
Also, with the game being on Friday, the $5 Friday Beer promotion is still on!
Where to get tickets:
Tickets can be purchased online here or at the box office.
With that thanks for joining us here at Sounder at Heart for the Tacoma Stars MASL regular season. Please us for the playoffs and, eventually the next MASL season!