The Highland Tech varsity soccer team from Gastonia, NC, will host a playoff match against Gray Stone Day from Misenheimer, NC, today at 6 p.m. at Highland Tech. This game is part of the “2024 NCHSAA Men’s Soccer Championships – 1A” tournament.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: North Carolina High School Soccer
Who: Gray Stone Day vs Highland Tech
When: Tuesday, November 12, 2024
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Bracket: 2024 NCHSAA Men’s Soccer Championships – 1A
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview:
Highland Tech’s varsity soccer team from Gastonia, NC, is set to face off against Gray Stone Day from Misenheimer, NC, in an exciting 1A playoff match in the 2024 NCHSAA Men’s Soccer Championships. The game will take place at Highland Tech at 6 p.m. today, showcasing two strong teams with impressive records and standout performances throughout the season.
Team Performance and Rankings
Gray Stone Day enters the match with a 13-6-4 overall record, holding a national rank of 3,458 and a North Carolina ranking of 259. With a winning percentage of .652, Gray Stone Day has scored 79 goals this season while conceding 36. Led by Walker Bullard with 18 goals and Donovan Christlieb with 11 assists, Gray Stone Day has proven to be a formidable force, especially in conference play with an 8-2 record. Defensively, goalkeeper Anthony Decuir has managed a solid 0.882 goals-against average.
Highland Tech, however, boasts a 17-1 record and an impressive national ranking of 1,054 and a North Carolina ranking of 97. Dominant at home with a flawless 10-0 record, Highland Tech has a winning percentage of .944 and has scored 84 goals while only conceding 14. Saliou Diouf leads Highland Tech’s attack with 19 goals, and Maximillian Rodriguez supports with a team-leading 20 assists. In goal, Gabe Mark has excelled with a standout goals-against average of just 0.250.
Scoring Averages and Stat Comparison
In scoring averages, Highland Tech has maintained a higher final average of 4.7 goals per game compared to Gray Stone Day’s 3.4. Highland Tech’s offensive power is supported by 63 assists and 252 shots, showcasing their capability to consistently create and finish scoring opportunities. On defense, Highland Tech’s 0.765 goals-against average further highlights their balanced strength on both ends of the field.
Common Opponents
When comparing common opponents, Highland Tech holds an edge, achieving a 3-0 record, including victories over Piedmont Community Charter and Queen’s Grant. In contrast, Gray Stone Day had two draws against these teams, reflecting the competitive level of play but indicating Highland Tech’s stronger performances in head-to-head comparisons.
Outlook
With both teams bringing strong records and key players, this matchup promises to be a compelling playoff contest. Highland Tech will look to capitalize on its home-field advantage and defensive consistency, while Gray Stone Day aims to bring offensive pressure and experience from its 21-game season. As the two teams clash in Gastonia, fans can anticipate a thrilling evening as these top programs compete for a spot in the next round of the 2024 NCHSAA Men’s Soccer Championships.
