HIGHLIGHTS: Ashley tops Hoggard 2-1 to advance to girl’s soccer state championship

Screaming Eagles are back on the stage that they lost in 2023, and they've used that as motivation fuel all season

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WWAY) – What a game. Again.

In front of hundreds of their home fans, the Ashley Screaming Eagles held off the Hoggard Vikings 2-1 to advance to the NCHSAA 4A State Championship.

Ashley broke the tie with nine minutes to go in the first half. Karina Peat sent a beautifully lofted cross right to the head of Savannah Manset, who placed it in the top left corner for a goal. While Hoggard had a few shots in that half, nothing got by Morgan Tucker in net.

Almost immediately after halftime, the Eagles extended their lead. Sophie Morvil sent a ground pass across the box to an open Kieran Bradley for another Ashley score.

Hoggard was down but not out. After more missed shots, saved shots, and a lot of possession; Brielle Archer finally broke through. She sent an incredible left-footed shot into the top right corner from the top of the box. But the comeback was not meant to be.

Ashley will be playing in the state championship Friday or Saturday night, with the time still TBD.