Seattle - Just outside of the runways at SeaTac Airport, the West Seattle Titans (4-3) hosted the Seattle Academy Cardinals (4-4) at Moshier Park under the lights for a 7:45 start. Before they took the week off, the Titans collected three Metro wins, with only one loss blemishing their conference record. Their guests entered the game undefeated in Division 2 play, coming off a 13-7 win at home against Overlake on Tuesday.

Getting off to an early start, West Seattle captain Liam Allen got his offense rolling by grinding through for back to back goals. Working to match the effort, SAAS’ Ben Healey and Grant Sorenson both knocked down solo shots to even the score. Harrison Jolly would bury his first goal for the Titans, regaining the lead to roll into the second quarter up 3-2.

The second frame was filled with back and forth transition and a wealth of shots from each offense, but only West Seattle would find a way to get the ball into the back of the net. Despite the strong goaltending of Christian Batigan, three different Titans would get on the board, starting with another shot from Harrison Jolly. Working to keep the streak alive, Liam Allen would complete his hat trick, not long before Andrew Pierce hit the last goal of the half to roll into the break with a 6-2 lead.

Working hard to turn the tables, team goals leader Will Patrick got the half started with a confidence builder, finding a way to get past an aggressive defense backed by goalie Brett Jenkins. The goaltender was pulling out all of the stops, but it was Jordan Feinstien who would connect for the second, and last, Cardinal goal of the half. Strong defense and focused goaltending staved off any advances from the Titans, using a third quarter shutout to chip away at their deficit.

Starting the fourth up by only two goals, Harrison Jolly would stop the Cardinals’ run and earn his hat trick to claim a 7-4 lead. Not ready to give up, freshman Ethan Purcell made the effort for his only goal of the night to bring SAAS within two. Will Patrick would continue the rally with his second goal, cutting the lead to just one. After multiple attempts, the Cardinals wouldn’t be able to find another connection in the final minutes and the Titans would hold on for the 7-6 victory.

West Seattle will look to carry the momentum into Monday night’s conference battle at Moshier Park with Garfield. Seattle Academy will return to the field on Tuesday night when they head to Bothell, going to work against Providence. By Mark Donahue