'Don't Count Us Out': Ashley Girls Soccer Eyes State Semifinals

Ashley Girls Soccer: Resilience Personified

In a thrilling display of determination and skill, the Ashley Screaming Eagles girls soccer team emerged victorious yet again, defeating the Fuquay-Varina Bengals 2-0 on May 18. With this win, Ashley not only kept their playoff dreams alive but also made a statement: they are not to be overlooked.

Game Day Atmosphere

The tension was palpable as the Ashley girls stepped onto the pitch. Despite being favored, they faced the daunting challenge of entering the match with a roster burdened by injuries. Multiple starters were nursing ailments, leaving them vulnerable yet ever resilient.

"We came in very open-minded," said senior defender Sarah Branin. "We came in completely fresh, with no expectations."

A Spark from McNulty

Fortunately for the Screaming Eagles, sophomore sensation Riley McNulty was ready to ignite the scoreboard. Just minutes into the match, she found the back of the net, propelling her team forward with a much-needed burst of energy. Her second goal came late in the match, solidifying the victory. McNulty's efforts not only showcased her scoring prowess but also reinforced the team's camaraderie.

“It's a sisterhood here,” McNulty expressed passionately. “You can play hard for each other the whole game and not get the goals, so when you finally do, it's just a different kind of feeling. It's amazing.”

A Season of Resilience and Transformation

This year has been one of significant transition for Ashley girls soccer. After three consecutive seasons reaching the state championships, the loss of a memorable senior class left the team with the task of redefining its identity. Rather than merely trying to emulate the success of previous teams, they chose to innovate and adapt.

• Changes in player positions
• Adjustments in formations
• Efforts to build a fresh team identity

Following an early-season defeat at the hands of Hoggard, drastic shifts were necessary. Coach Graf emphasized the need for change: "The Hoggard game sealed the fact that we had to make a change. We weren't putting people in places where they could be their best.”

Looking Ahead

Ashley's success this season has been remarkable. They have achieved a mere two losses in their last eight matches, and this win against Fuquay-Varina marks their second playoff shutout.

As they prepare for the next round, they face the No. 2-seeded Holly Springs, an encounter charged with high stakes and potential. The Screaming Eagles are ready to fight for their place in the state semifinals.

“Don't count us out,” Branin boldly declared. “We're still working. Every year, we're back to work.”

The heart that this team exemplifies serves as a powerful reminder of the dedication and passion that fuels high school sports. Here's to the journey ahead!

To read the original piece, visit Wilmington StarNews at Ashley girls soccer holds off Fuquay-Varina for playoff quarterfinal spot.