On Tuesday, November 12, 2024, the Elizabeth Minutemen (12-4, NJ) varsity soccer team will play a neutral-site playoff match against the Westfield Blue Devils (13-1-3, NJ). This game is part of the 2024 New Jersey High School Boys Soccer Playoff Brackets: NJSIAA – North Jersey Section 2 Group 4 tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: New Jersey High School Soccer Playoffs
Who: Elizabeth vs Westfield
When: Tuesday, November 12, 2024
Time: TBD
Bracket: 2024 New Jersey High School Boys Soccer Playoff Brackets: NJSIAA – North Jersey Section 2 Group 4
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Game preview: Elizabeth vs Westfield

The high school soccer season in New Jersey has seen intense competition, with Westfield and Elizabeth both showcasing their talents. As the two teams gear up for their neutral playoff match today, let’s break down their performance, head-to-head results, and key statistics.

Season Records and Overall Performance

Westfield (24-25) has been dominant this season with a remarkable 13-1-3 record. They have shown impressive consistency both at home and on the road, with a 5-1-3 record at home, 6-0 on the road, and 2-0 in neutral-site matches. Their offensive firepower has been on full display, scoring 49 goals while conceding just 17. Their overall win percentage stands at a stellar .853.

On the other hand, Elizabeth (24-25), with a 12-4 record, has shown strength throughout the season as well. Their 7-3 record at home is strong, and they have remained unbeaten on neutral ground at 4-0. However, their away form has been slightly less convincing at 1-1. They have scored 40 goals and allowed 18, with a win percentage of .750. Their league performance, with a .500 record, suggests some room for improvement in tight matchups.

Scoring Averages

Looking at their scoring averages, Westfield has been a powerhouse, averaging 2.9 goals per game, with a solid performance even in overtime (1.0 OT). Elizabeth, however, averages slightly fewer goals per game with 2.5 and performs well in the opening half (1.3), but struggles in extra-time periods.

Head-to-Head: Recent Encounters

Westfield has had the upper hand in their recent matchups with Elizabeth. Their last encounter on September 26, 2024, ended with a 4-2 victory for Westfield. The match was a non-conference affair, but it showcased Westfield’s ability to win away from home. Earlier in the season, on October 19, 2024, Westfield defeated Elizabeth 3-0 in a neutral-site match, further solidifying their dominance.

Common Opponents: A Comparison

Both teams have faced several common opponents, and the results offer some insight into their relative strengths.

• Cranford: Westfield went 4-0 against them, while Elizabeth posted a 5-1 record.
• Union: Westfield managed a 3-2 win, and Elizabeth triumphed with a 4-1 victory.
• Governor Livingston: Westfield crushed them 7-0, while Elizabeth also won comfortably, 3-0.
• Scotch Plains-Fanwood: Westfield defeated them 1-0, but Elizabeth lost 1-0.
• Rahway: Both teams recorded victories, with Westfield winning 2-1 and Elizabeth securing a 3-1 win.

This comparison highlights that while both teams have had success against common opponents, Westfield’s stronger win rate, particularly against tougher competition, might give them the edge heading into today’s match.

Record Breakdown and Playoff Outlook

Both teams have strong records overall, but their performances in the playoffs will likely come down to their head-to-head record and recent form.

• Westfield is unbeaten in their last 2 playoff matches, and they have been nearly flawless in neutral games, with a 2-0 record in such encounters this season.
• Elizabeth has also shown resilience in playoff scenarios, but they will need to perform at their best to overcome Westfield’s recent form.

In terms of overall matchups, Westfield has a 13-1-3 record, with a dominating performance on the road. Elizabeth’s 12-4 record, while impressive, shows they’ve been more inconsistent compared to their rivals.

Key Takeaways

• Westfield‘s formidable offense and impeccable road record make them the favorites.
• Elizabeth has shown resilience, but their challenges in high-stakes matchups might make this a difficult contest.
• The neutral-site match today will be crucial for both teams, but Westfield’s dominance against common opponents and their recent head-to-head victories give them the upper hand.

The stage is set for an exciting playoff encounter—will Westfield continue their dominance, or can Elizabeth turn the tide in this crucial match? Fans are eagerly awaiting the outcome!