Clinton’s girls soccer team opened the 4A NCHSAA state playoffs in dominant fashion Monday night, cruising past Graham 7-0 at home in the first round of the postseason.
The ninth-seeded Lady Dark Horses wasted little time asserting control and never looked back, using a balanced offensive attack and another dominant defensive effort to secure the shutout victory. With the win, Clinton advances to the second round of the state playoffs and will travel Thursday to face eighth-seeded Uwharrie Charter Academy in Asheboro.
Junior standout Jenna Jackson once again led the charge offensively, recording four goals and two assists in a commanding performance. Jackson continued to add to an already stellar season, helping Clinton overwhelm Graham from start to finish.
Senior Arizona Tyndall added two goals and one assist, while senior Laynie Brock also found the back of the net with a goal of her own. Jenna Grace Rose and Summer Davis each contributed assists as Clinton finished with seven goals and five assists as a team.
The Lady Dark Horses controlled possession throughout the match and consistently pressured Graham’s defense, creating scoring chances early and often. Clinton’s offensive depth was on full display as multiple players contributed across the stat sheet.
Defensively, Clinton remained sharp for the entire match. Senior goalkeeper Anna Lovitt played 70 minutes in net, while junior Allison Naylor logged the final 10 minutes to help preserve the shutout. The defensive unit kept Graham off the scoreboard and limited quality opportunities throughout the contest.
The victory gives Clinton momentum heading into the second round as the Lady Dark Horses continue their postseason push.