On Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024, the Cherokee Chiefs (12-4-1) from Marlton, NJ, will play a neutral-site playoff match against the Toms River North Mariners (11-6-1) from Toms River, NJ. This game is part of the 2024 New Jersey High School Boys Soccer Playoff Brackets for the NJSIAA South Jersey Group 4 tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: New Jersey High School Soccer Playoffs
Who: Cherokee vs Toms River North
When: Tuesday, November 12, 2024
Time: TBD
Bracket: 2024 New Jersey High School Boys Soccer Playoff Brackets: NJSIAA – South Jersey Group 4
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Game preview: Cherokee vs Toms River North

As the 2024-25 high school soccer season progresses, a closer look at two prominent teams—Toms River North and Cherokee—provides insight into their records, performance against common opponents, and key matchups. Both teams have shown resilience and promise, with varied strengths and weaknesses that have shaped their campaigns. Here’s a breakdown of how these teams stack up.

Overall Record and Performance

• Toms River North has an overall record of 11-6-1, with a solid league performance of 4-0-1. The team has excelled at home with a 6-2-1 record but has struggled somewhat away, posting a 4-4 record. Despite this, their win percentage stands at .639, which reflects a competitive season overall. Their strong league performance, with a .900 win percentage, has been a key highlight.
• Cherokee, with a 12-4-1 overall record, boasts a higher win percentage of .735. Their league play has been less impressive, with a 1-3 record, but they have been dominant in non-league matchups, posting a 9-1-1 record. At home, Cherokee is an impressive 7-1, while they have performed solidly on the road (4-3-1). Cherokee has a goal-scoring average of 1.6 per match, with a total of 28 goals scored and 12 conceded.

Team Scoring Averages

• Toms River North averages 2.1 goals per match, with a defensive record of 22 goals conceded. Their attacking strength has been apparent, particularly in home games where they score heavily.
• Cherokee averages 1.6 goals per match, a slightly lower output, but they have been much more defensively sound, conceding just 12 goals. Their strong defense has helped them secure key victories throughout the season.

Head-to-Head Record

The teams have faced off in common matchups against teams such as Lenape and Cherry Hill East, which provide a useful comparison.

• In their match against Lenape, Toms River North fell short with a 3-2 loss on 9/7/24, while Cherokee had a commanding 3-0 win over the same team on 9/5/24.
• Against Cherry Hill East, Toms River North triumphed 7-0 on 11/8/24, while Cherokee lost a narrow 2-1 game on 9/19/24.

Both teams show a 1-1 record when facing common opponents, highlighting their competitiveness.

Playoff and Neutral Record

• Toms River North holds a strong playoff record of 2-0, showing their potential in high-stakes games. Cherokee also has a flawless playoff performance, with a 2-0 record in their postseason matchups.

Key Strengths

• Toms River North has been more consistent in league play and has the edge in terms of total goals scored. Their defense has allowed them to control matches, though their inconsistency in away games may need addressing.
• Cherokee, on the other hand, stands out for its outstanding defensive record, conceding just 12 goals throughout the season. Their dominant home form, alongside a perfect playoff record, suggests they can thrive in critical matches.

Conclusion

With similar records and performances in common matchups, both Toms River North and Cherokee have proven themselves as competitive teams in the 2024-25 season. While Toms River North leads in offensive firepower and league play, Cherokee counters with a rock-solid defense and an impressive home record. As the season unfolds, both teams will look to build on their strengths and address their weaknesses, especially as the postseason approaches.