Liberty punches semifinals ticket

The Patriots held on to its early lead to win the quarterfinals game against Ellensburg.

The Patriots hosted the Ellensburg Bulldogs Saturday in quarterfinals.

Liberty won 21-10, securing the Patriots spot in the semifinals Nov. 24 against Hockinson.

The game is scheduled to be played at 4 p.m. at McKenzie Stadium in Vancouver, Washington.

Ellensburg got off to an early 3-0 start with six minutes to go in the first quarter.

Three minutes later, the Patriots went on the board following a five yard touchdown run from Jacob Thoresen. Connor Davis’ point after was good and the Patriots led 7-3.

With eight minutes to play in the second quarter, Liberty extended its led to 14-3.

Preston Parker scored on a 13 yard run and Davis kicked the PAT.

Returning from halftime, the game went scoreless until one minute to play in the third quarter.

Ryan Cain scored a 47 yard pick six to put the Patriots up 21-3 following Davis extra point.

With the final minutes of the game winding down, Liberty gave up a 40 yard completion for six.

Ellensburg trailed 21-10 with five minutes to play.

Following the Bulldogs score, they kicked it off to Liberty who held on the ball for the remaining minutes of play.

This is the fifth win in a row for Liberty.

Following a win against Hockinson Saturday, the Patriots will advance into the state championship game Dec. 1 at the Tacoma Dome against the winner of Lynden versus Fife.