Kogen Albertini opened the game scoring a header in the 5th minute at Cronin Field on Monday, October 16th to help the #2 Jesuit Crusaders take down the Beaverton Beavers and clinch the 2023 Metro League title.
A lot was at stake on senior night for the Crusaders. With a win or draw, they win the league title. However, a loss would result in a tie with the Aloha Warriors.
Jesuit was controlling the pace of the game, dominating possession for most of the night. After Albertini’s goal to start, senior Micah Doebler made it 2-0 with a goal in the 30th minute after a beautiful set of passes by Jesuit’s forwards.
Jesuit’s leading goal scorer, Pablo Salazar, was back on the field after a two-game suspension for a red card in their 3-1 win against Aloha. Pablo made his presence felt immediately, controlling the tempo in the midfield and scoring a magnificent goal in the 33rd minute to push Jesuit into a 3-0 lead.
Jesuit would control possession in the second half, allowing only one shot on goal from Beaverton for the rest of the game, resulting in a 3-0 win and another Metro League title.
“We’re feeling confident as a team,” junior Caden Hoppes said after the game. “We’re starting to hit our peak as a team and this is obviously the best time to do so. As a first year varsity player, I’m excited to make an impact and give a run at the state title.”
Looking to defend their state title, Jesuit will be a top seed in the state tournament which starts on October 28th.