Kingston soccer secures state berth in shootout win

POULSBO—Kingston's boys soccer team is headed to the Class 2A state tournament for the fifth consecutive year.

Goalkeeper Ian Schmid made three saves in a penalty-kick shootout as the Buccaneers edged Franklin Pierce 1-0 in a West Central District game Tuesday at North Kitsap Stadium.

"It was monumental," Schmid said. "I wanted to make sure we got this win to go onto state."

Kingston (13-3-1) plays Highline on Saturday at 5 p.m. at Franklin Pierce High School to determine the No. 3/4 seed into state.

After a scoreless regulation and overtime, Kingston fell behind early in the shootout after Brady Vernik hit the crossbar and Danny Elliot saw his attempt saved.

Schmid turned the momentum around for the Olympic League 2A champions, saving Franklin Pierce's final two opportunities to give the Buccaneers a 3-2 advantage in kicks. Henry Golden, Davey Anderson and Colton Eyer converted for Kingston in the shootout.

Kingston senior captain Brady Vernik said Schmid has proven to be a pleasant surprise in his first year starting at goalkeeper. He came into the season never having played the position.

"He's just blown away all our expectations," Vernik said. "It's all dedication, it's hard work"