The Southwestern Randolph varsity soccer team from Asheboro, NC, will face Clinton, NC, in a neutral-site playoff match today at 7 PM. The game, part of the “2024 NCHSAA Men’s Soccer Championships – 2A” tournament, will take place at the Mecklenburg County Sportsplex.
Southwestern Randolph vs Clinton Game Info:
What: North Carolina High School Soccer Playoffs
Who: Southwestern Randolph vs Clinton
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 NCHSAA Men’s Soccer Championships – 2A
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Game preview: Southwestern Randolph vs Clinton
In a battle of titans, Clinton and Southwestern Randolph are set to face off in a high-stakes matchup that could define their seasons. Both teams have established themselves as powerhouses, dominating their respective conferences and boasting stellar records. Here’s a deep dive into their rankings, records, and what to expect from this highly anticipated showdown.
Team Rankings and Records
Clinton holds an impressive 27-2 record, ranking 94th nationally, 10th in North Carolina, and 1st in their class. They have been nearly flawless, especially in conference play, boasting a perfect 8-0 record and a remarkable .931 overall win percentage. Their offensive prowess is undeniable, with a total of 135 goals scored and only 13 conceded across all games.
Southwestern Randolph is equally formidable, with a 25-2 record and a national ranking of 233. While ranked 22nd in North Carolina, they also hold the top spot in their class. Their .926 win percentage and dominance at home (18-0) demonstrate their resilience. Offensively, they have outscored Clinton with 155 goals while conceding just 26.
Offensive Firepower
Both teams bring potent attacking options to the field. Clinton averages 4.7 goals per game, with a strong first-half showing (3.0 goals). Southwestern Randolph edges them slightly, averaging 5.7 goals per game, with their strongest performances coming in the opening 45 minutes (3.5 goals).
Key players will play a pivotal role in this matchup:
- Clinton’s Griffin Williams (#8): Williams leads the team with 27 goals and 30 assists, showcasing his ability to both score and create opportunities.
- Southwestern Randolph’s Fernando Hernandez (#10): Hernandez is a standout, tallying an incredible 49 goals this season, far above the national average. His attacking threat will be a key focus for Clinton’s defense.
Defensive Strength
While Southwestern Randolph has conceded more goals (26) than Clinton (13), their goalkeeper, Jonathan Perez Dominguez (#0), has been outstanding with a goals-against average of 0. Dominguez’s ability to keep clean sheets could be a decisive factor.
Clinton’s defensive stats are less detailed, but their record suggests a well-organized backline capable of withstanding pressure.
Record Breakdown and Playoff Momentum
Both teams are riding the momentum of perfect playoff records (5-0). Southwestern Randolph’s dominance at home could give them a slight edge, but Clinton’s 9-0 away record suggests they are unshaken by hostile environments.
Interestingly, neither team has faced each other this season, nor do they share common opponents, adding an air of unpredictability to the match.
Key Comparisons
| Category | Clinton | Southwestern Randolph |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 135 | 155 |
| Assists | 119 | 133 |
| Goals Against Average | – | 0.000 |
| Top Scorer Goals | 27 (Williams) | 49 (Hernandez) |
| Top Assists | 30 (Williams) | 28 (Avina) |
What to Watch For
- Early Dominance: Both teams excel in the first half. The side that starts stronger could dictate the pace.
- Star Power: With Hernandez and Williams on the field, expect moments of brilliance. Their ability to step up in critical moments could sway the game.
- Defensive Tactics: Clinton’s defense will be tested by Southwestern Randolph’s high-scoring attack, while Dominguez will need to maintain his stellar form in goal.
Prediction
This game promises to be a thrilling encounter between two elite teams. Southwestern Randolph’s high-scoring offense and home-field advantage make them slight favorites, but Clinton’s resilience and defensive strength cannot be underestimated. Fans can expect a nail-biter that could go down to the wire.
No matter the outcome, this matchup will undoubtedly showcase the best of high school soccer, leaving a lasting impression on both teams’ remarkable seasons.
