The Triangle Math & Science varsity soccer team from Apex, NC, will host a playoff match against Wake Prep Academy from Wake Forest, NC, today at 5:00 PM at Triangle Math & Science. 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: Wake Prep Academy vs Triangle Math & Science
When: Tuesday, November 12, 2024
Time: 5:00 p.m.
Bracket: 2024 NCHSAA Men’s Soccer Championships – 4A
Live stream: Watch here

Preview: Triangle Math & Science vs. Wake Prep Academy Playoff Match

The Triangle Math & Science (TMS) Tigers and the Wake Prep Academy Wildcats face off today in an exciting playoff matchup as part of the 2024 NCHSAA Men’s Soccer Championships – 1A. The game will be hosted by Triangle Math & Science in Apex, NC, with kickoff scheduled for 5 PM.

Team Records and Season Summary

The Wildcats from Wake Prep Academy have had a challenging season, with an overall record of 8-14-1 and a conference record of 2-10. With a national ranking of 4,089 and a state ranking of 305 in Class 9, Wake Prep has shown some resilience despite a tough season. Their scoring ability averages 1.7 goals per game, with standout performances in the second half.

In contrast, Triangle Math & Science has shown dominance this season, boasting an impressive 12-5-2 overall record and an undefeated 11-0-1 record in their conference. Ranked 4,810 nationally and 363 in the state, TMS has proven themselves to be a formidable opponent with strong offensive stats, averaging five goals per game. They’ve been particularly successful at home, winning 7 out of their 10 home games.

Scoring Power and Defense

A key advantage for TMS lies in their scoring capabilities, with a total of 95 goals this season compared to Wake Prep’s 40. TMS also averages fewer goals against them, allowing only 2.3 goals per game on average compared to Wake Prep’s 4.0. Offensively, TMS will rely on their well-rounded lineup, which has consistently shown the ability to score from both long-range and set pieces.

Wake Prep’s defensive struggle has been notable this season. Their primary goalkeeper, Caden Jones, has a goals-against average (GAA) of 2.2, slightly lower than the national average but significantly impacted by a challenging defensive season. For TMS, goal-stopping remains a strength with their average GAA at a solid 2.268.

Key Players to Watch

• Wake Prep Academy: Noel Biju leads the Wildcats with four goals, while Angel Arevalocampos supports with three assists. Ahmet Emre Aras, with 12 shots, has been another essential player for Wake Prep.
• Triangle Math & Science: The Tigers boast a balanced lineup with multiple goal-scorers and playmakers, giving them the flexibility to adapt their game as needed.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced off against common opponents this season, including Research Triangle and Falls Lake. Wake Prep recorded one win and three losses against these teams, while TMS suffered four losses. Although both teams struggled with these common opponents, TMS’s performance against other teams has been consistently strong, highlighting the team’s ability to learn from and adapt to previous challenges.

Match Outlook

With TMS hosting the match, they will be favored based on their stronger record and scoring ability. Wake Prep, however, has the potential to surprise with a solid defensive performance. The match will likely hinge on TMS’s ability to break through Wake Prep’s defense early and keep their scoring momentum throughout the game.

This playoff game offers both teams a chance to extend their season, and fans can expect an intense and competitive match as the Wildcats seek an upset, and the Tigers aim to defend their home field advantage.