Columbia Basin is headed back to the Final Four after a thrilling 2-1 win over perennial power Highline.

After their first loss of the year in a meaningless match against North Idaho, CBC came out ready to take it to whoever was in front of them. Right out of the gate, CBC set an early tone by pressing the Thunderbirds on every touch. The Hawks dominated time of possession while throwing their best punch early. Highline was able able to muster one shot in the first half while Basin kept the ball in the attacking half of the pitch. 

There were four near misses for CBC including one shot off the post. Despite the 0-0 score heading into the break, the Hawks looked confident and in control.

The first strike came from Kassadi Suitonu just outside of half as she was able to press the Highline keeper into a fumble allowing Suitonu to get a foot on the ball and send it into the back of the net for the 1-0 lead. As the half wore on CBC had another opportunity, this time Suitonu got behind the defense on a crossing pass that she was able to score on but an offsides call wiped off what would have been the second goal.

Just as things were looking great in the 85th minute, the Thunderbirds intercepted a clearing pass by CBC and connected on a strike that sailed passed Kylie Patocka in goal for the equalizer. As the half wore down to a close and stoppage time was added, Suitonu was able to get passed a defender on the left side allowing her to send in an unobstructed cross that met the head of Alexis Olivas for the game winner in thrilling fashion.

The Hawks will head back to Seattle to take on Clark in their semi-final matchup with the winner moving on to face the winner of Peninsula/Spokane and Lower Columbia.