It took a second half turnaround of 31 points and some clutch free throws for the Beavers to triumph over the Trappers 38-36 on Tuesday night on the road in a Class 1A District 4 pigtail game to move them into the double elimination part of the bracket.
Not since the 2022 district semifinals had Tenino (7-15) been victorious in the postseason. It needed every last break to beat Fort Vancouver for the second time this season. Only scoring seven points and going 7-of-26 from the free throw line didn’t help.
On the flip side, the Beavers allowed just nine points in the opening half.
“You can’t ever be mad when you hold someone to nine,” Tenino head coach Kirsi Gofinch said. “With such a young group to get in those close situations, they are getting that experience. It felt good for the girls to come in and keep their composure.”
Charley Jones paced Tenino with 19 points and his three 3s in the third that Gofinch stated “kicked us into gear.” Kylie Gonia added eight while Kyla Watson and Lilly Pfaff added four points each.
The Beavers will take on Trico league champ Seton Catholic in the quarterfinals on Friday night. They are guaranteed at least two more games and could play at max three.
“They are really excited,” Gofinch said. “Tough road, but not impossible.”
