The Washington School girls soccer team is now just one win away from playing for a state championship, and the Lady Generals could not have advanced in a more convincing fashion.
Washington School, playing at home, defeated Manchester Academy 8-1 Tuesday in the quarterfinals of the Division III Girls’ Soccer State Playoffs. The Lady Generals will host Laurel Christian Thursday at 5 p.m. in the semifinals of the state playoffs. The championship game is slated for Monday at Madison Ridgeland Academy.
“It has been a while since we got to the semifinals of the state playoffs,” said Washington School coach Jeff Giachelli. “We came out and put up eight goals in a playoff game so that is a a good sign.
“These girls play together. We are moving the ball well, and they have progressed as the year has gone on.”
Mary Glenn Hooker, the team’s only senior, and Caroline Horn, the Generals leading scorer, each scored three goals in Tuesday’s game. Kate Andrews and Caroline Murrell each scored one goal. Washington School goalie Avery Doolittle made a number of saves as well. The team’s offensive front line has been led by Caroline Horn and Avery Selby.
The team’s midfield is led by Caroline Murrell and Reed Hooker, who have both been instrumental leaders this season, said the coach.
The team’s defense is sparked by Maggie Wade and Ann Leighton Maranto.
The Lady Generals scored almost 100 goals this season in conference because they always try to make the extra pass for a better shot on goal.
“The easy goals are what we like. The longer goals from 20 yards out are going to come, but the easy ones are what we like.
I don’t know. I try not to play that game. I don’t want to look ahead and play. They have bought into what we have taught them as far as short passes and connecting passes. They have been committed to it,” Coach Giachelli said.
