EPHRATA — Ephrata opened its boys soccer season with back-to-back wins, beating Soap Lake 9-2 on Thursday, March 12 and shutting out Tonasket 2-0 on Saturday, March 14.

Against Soap Lake, the Tigers led 5-0 at halftime and spread the scoring across the lineup. Senior midfielder Junior Chavez scored twice and freshman Eli Cornejo added a goal and three assists. Avian Soto, Jason Alemen, Yahizee Alvarado, Julian Blancas, Tony Hernandez and Douglas Benavidez each found the net as Ephrata took 31 shots on goal against the neighboring Eagles.

"We played strong defense, controlled the pace and possession of the game and were able to score multiple ways," EHS coach Ivan Garay said.

Against Tonasket, Chavez scored both goals in the first half, the first coming three minutes in off an assist from Fernando Ramirez, and the second around the 30 minute mark. Collectively, the Tigers tallied 15 shots at Tonasket's net and preserved the shutout with nine saves by sophomore keeper Isaac Blancas.

"My senior players have really stood out, their leadership is our driving force," Garay said. "Every player on varsity and in the program has worked very hard to improve since the first day of the season."

Ephrata has two more non-league games coming up this week. The Tigers travel to Bridgeport on Tuesday for a 4:30 p.m. match, then host Moses Lake on Thursday at 6 p.m.

They open Central Washington Athletic Conference action on Saturday, March 21, with a noon match against East Valley.