The First Flight varsity soccer team from Kill Devil Hills, NC, will host a playoff match against Williams High School from Burlington, NC, today at 5:30 PM. This game is part of the “2024 NCHSAA Men’s Soccer Championships – 3A” tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:
What: North Carolina High School Soccer
Who: Williams vs First Flight
When: Tuesday, November 12, 2024
Time: 5:30 p.m.
Bracket: 2024 NCHSAA Men’s Soccer Championships – 3A
Live stream: Watch here

Match Preview: First Flight vs. Williams in 2024 NCHSAA Men’s Soccer Championships – 3A Playoffs

The First Flight Nighthawks and Williams Bulldogs face off in an exciting playoff showdown today at 5:30 PM as part of the 2024 NCHSAA Men’s Soccer Championships – 3A. Hosted by First Flight in Kill Devil Hills, NC, this matchup pits two strong teams against each other, each bringing unique strengths and solid records into the game.

Team Overview and Season Performance

The Williams Bulldogs have had a remarkable season, holding a 17-7-1 overall record and an 8-4 conference record. Ranked 1,378th nationally and 122nd in North Carolina, Williams has showcased a powerful offense with a scoring average of 4.5 goals per game. With a well-rounded home and away record, they’ve proven adaptable in all environments and are ready for the challenges that First Flight will present.

The First Flight Nighthawks enter the playoffs as the top-ranked team in their class and 20th in the state, with an unbeaten 19-0 record and an unblemished 12-0 conference performance. Known for their powerful defense and balanced scoring, First Flight averages an impressive 5.4 goals per game while allowing just 0.27 goals on average. With a perfect record both at home and away, the Nighthawks are poised to maintain their dominance as they aim to extend their winning streak.

Key Players and Scoring Trends

Both teams are led by standout players who will be key to their team’s performance in this crucial playoff game.

• Williams: Aurelio Figueroa has been an offensive powerhouse for the Bulldogs, leading with 28 goals and 21 assists this season. His ability to create and finish plays will be vital if Williams hopes to break through First Flight’s stellar defense. Goalkeeper Ruben Olivo also provides solid support with a 1.42 goals-against average, keeping Williams competitive in high-stakes matches.
• First Flight: Nathan Tsonev is the Nighthawks’ top scorer, with 25 goals and 11 assists, complemented by strong performances from Taylor Summerton, who has been a reliable presence in the attacking line. On defense, goalkeeper Colin Rhodes has an impressive goals-against average of just 0.246, underscoring the team’s exceptional defensive organization.

Team Statistics and Playing Style

First Flight has shown a balanced mix of offense and defense, scoring 103 goals while only allowing 6 across 19 games. Williams also boasts high offensive numbers with 111 goals scored this season, supported by 96 assists. However, the Bulldogs have allowed 41 goals, indicating that First Flight’s attacking players could find opportunities to exploit any defensive gaps.

With a goals-against average of 1.527, Williams may face challenges containing First Flight’s potent offense. First Flight’s defense has been rock-solid, allowing an average of just 0.27 goals per game, making it difficult for opponents to break through.

Match Dynamics and Prediction

With First Flight’s perfect record and solid defensive stats, they enter as the favorite. However, Williams has the offensive talent to test the Nighthawks, particularly if Figueroa can find opportunities against First Flight’s defense.

Both teams bring different strengths to this matchup, with Williams relying on creative playmaking and First Flight on a balance of structured defense and powerful offense. The match could hinge on whether Williams can break through First Flight’s defense early or whether the Nighthawks will control the pace and capitalize on their scoring chances.

This clash is set to be an intense battle of skill and strategy, as both teams vie for a spot in the next round of the tournament. Fans can expect a competitive, high-energy game with two determined teams aiming for playoff glory.