Darren Tinnerstet was looking for a program-defining win against one of the 1A powerhouse programs in Cascade Christian with the season on the line and a state berth up for grabs.
He got it, and how.
The Beavers shocked Cascade Christian 28-7 in Sumner in a Class 1A Round of 24 matchup Saturday night behind five turnovers from their defense and four rushing touchdowns from the offense. It’s the first trip to state in the Tinnerstet era and first since 2022.
“We slayed the dragon,” Tinnerstet said. “I am so proud of them. Best coached game I’ve ever been a part of. Our guys just took it to them. All-around team effort.”
Michael Lanning was one of the standouts on the night with two rushing touchdowns and one of Tenino’s three interceptions.
“This was probably his best game,” Tinnerstet said of Lanning. “He’s been consistent.”
On offense, quarterback Mason Metcalf added a pair of rushing scores. For a defense that the coaching staff and players have lauded even before the season started, Austin Johnson and Marvin Phillips picked off passes, and Parker Minerich and Sawyer Noonan recovered fumbles.
The Beavers also held Cascade Christian’s offense, which came into the game averaging 43 per game to just seven points.
“Our defense was lights out. Our leadership took over. We played darn near perfect in all three phases,” Tinnerstet said. “This is a big program builder.”
Tenino (7-3) will learn of its state matchup and seeding on Sunday.
