FEDERAL WAY – The 16th-seeded Wahluke boys soccer team ran into another team defying its seeding and riding momentum deep into the Class 1A state tournament.

And for the first time since they scratched their way into the tournament, the Warriors didn't have the punch needed to advance.

No. 12 Meridian scored in the 19th minute and then was able to stop a Wahluke offense that had scored 11 goals in three state matches for a 1-0 victory, and a spot in the championship game.

The Trojans will meet second-seeded Vashon Island in Saturday’s final at 5 p.m., while the Warriors will meet No. 6 Cedar Park Christian at 12:30 for third and fourth place.

“We started a little bit slow in the first half,” Wahluke coach Cele Lopez said. “They were pretty similar, and they were comfortable with the style we play.”

Meridian sophomore Dakota Ng provided the game’s lone goal, taking the ball down the right side and rifling a shot from about 25 yards out over the head of the Warriors keeper.

“We made a few mistakes, and were caught off guard,” Lopez said.

Wahluke had its opportunities, but was unable to even the scores.

“It’s unfortunate for the seniors, but we’ll try to take home third,” said Lopez, who was a member of the Warriors 2000 2A state championship team.

Wahluke (17-7-2) is playing in its 10th final four, and first since finishing second in 2018.

The Warriors have won five state championships, three in 2A and two in 1A.