Reporter staff

The Mercer Island boys soccer team was just one point behind Newport two weeks ago with a chance at the 3A KingCo title. But the third best team in the state last year has stumbled, going 1-2-2 during the final five games of the season.

A 2-0 loss at Sammamish Thursday dropped Mercer Island into third place over all in the league and nine points out of first place to finish the regular season.

The demise began with a 2-1 loss to Skyline on April 24.

The only victory for the Islanders during the final five games of the season came May 1 against Bellevue, 2-1, at Islander Stadium. Islander Leandro Kimura scored consecutive goals during the 11th and 12th minutes of the contest.

Late goals continue to hamper the Islander defense as Bellevue (4-8-4) scored during the 78th minute to end the shutout.

The Islanders hosted a first-round playoff game Tuesday night at Islander Stadium (after Reporter deadline). With a victory Mercer Island will play Thursday night.