On Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024, the Harrison Blue Tide (16-5-2, NJ) varsity soccer team will face the Madison Dodgers (19-1, NJ) in a neutral-site playoff match. This game is part of the 2024 New Jersey High School Boys Soccer Playoff Brackets for the NJSIAA North Jersey Section 2, Group 2 tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

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

As we head into the tail end of the season, a deep dive into the performance of two standout teams, Madison and Harrison, reveals impressive records and head-to-head breakdowns that highlight the strength of these powerhouses in New Jersey high school sports.

Madison (24-25)

Madison has been nothing short of dominant this season, posting a stellar 19-1 overall record. Their performance in the league has been flawless, with a perfect 8-0 record, and they’ve excelled both at home (10-0) and on the road (7-0), showcasing their ability to handle any challenge thrown their way. Even in neutral-site games, they’ve posted an impressive 2-1 record. Their goal-scoring efficiency is notable, with 67 goals scored and only 18 goals conceded, demonstrating their well-rounded play both offensively and defensively. Madison’s offensive scoring averages are also noteworthy, with a 3.4 goals per game average across all games, including 1.6 in the first period, 1.7 in the second, and 1.0 in overtime.

Harrison (24-25)

While Harrison’s overall record of 16-5-2 doesn’t match Madison’s near-perfect mark, they have been incredibly strong, particularly in the league, where they’ve posted a 7-3 record. Their home performance is particularly strong, with a 14-2-2 record at home. However, their performance on the road (2-3) has been less consistent, and they have yet to play any neutral-site games. Harrison has been a formidable opponent, scoring 76 goals while conceding 27, a solid defensive record. Their scoring averages are slightly behind Madison’s at 3.3 goals per game, with a breakdown of 1.2 in both the first and second periods and 1.0 in overtime.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Both teams have shown strong performances in the league, but it is their head-to-head and common opponent statistics that set them apart. Madison has dominated in their league play, with a perfect 8-0 league record, while Harrison has had some challenges with a 7-3 record in the same category. Madison remains unbeaten at home, and while Harrison has been stronger at home than away, they haven’t yet been tested in neutral games.

• Record Breakdown: Madison’s record is head and shoulders above Harrison in nearly every aspect, with a perfect league performance and near-perfect home and away results.
• Head-to-Head: These teams have yet to face each other in direct competition, but their mutual dominance in their respective regions suggests that a future meeting would be a thrilling match.

Looking Ahead

Madison will look to continue their dominant streak, especially as they head into playoff season, where they have posted a strong 2-0 record. Meanwhile, Harrison has the opportunity to improve their playoff performance, having not yet played in any neutral-site games.

Both teams are undoubtedly among the best in New Jersey this season, and their records suggest that they are more than capable of making deep runs in the playoffs. With Madison’s impeccable consistency and Harrison’s resilience, this rivalry is one to watch as the season progresses.

Summary of Key Stats:

• Madison: 19-1 overall, 8-0 in league, 67 goals scored, 18 goals allowed
• Harrison: 16-5-2 overall, 7-3 in league, 76 goals scored, 27 goals allowed
• Madison Scoring Average: 3.4 goals per game
• Harrison Scoring Average: 3.3 goals per game