The Varsity Eagles opened the MHSAA tournament by hosting Thornapple Kellogg on a perfect night for soccer.   The hosts got off to a dream start when Isaac Williams played fellow senior John Cassiday in behind the defense.  Cassiday made no mistake as he beat the keeper to give the Eagles an early 1-0 lead.   Cassiday would add to the lead not long after when Graham DeJonge played a nice ball to the right flank where Will Bush was able to head the ball into the path of Cassiday who would once again get in behind the defense to beat the keeper.   Despite other quality chances, the Eagles were not able to add to their lead.  The visitors would stun the home side with a goal against the run of play with just a handful of minutes to go in the first half to make it 2-1 at the break.  

The Eagles would come out on the front foot as the second half began and their consistent pressure would eventually result in the insurance goal they desired as Liam Jansen whipped a quality ball into the box where Cassiday was waiting to deftly flick it into the back of the net to complete his hat trick on the night.  The Eagles would see out their 3-1 advantage despite some high quality chances to add to the lead.  

The Eagles advance to the district semifinal on Monday, October 14, at 7:45pm at Eagle Stadium.   They will face the winner of the Gull Lake vs. Plainwell district quarter final, which is being played tonight.   Come out to support the Eagles on Monday night!  Go Eagles!