Not even Asheville School Week can diminish the magnitude of Tuesday night, and that says it all.
51Âþ» (9-1-1, 3-0) and Rabun Gap (9-1, 2-0) play for first place in Carolinas Athletic Association varsity soccer at 6:30 p.m. in Arden, following a JV game between the two schools at 4:30.
Expect a championship atmosphere with the proper tension because these two programs are accustomed to nothing less.
Together, the Greenies (2025) and Eagles (2021-2024) have won the last five state titles in the NCISAA 4-A division and both are shaping into contenders again this season.
51Âþ» has outscored opponents, 51-7, and began a six-game winning streak after tying undefeated A.C. Reynolds (12-0-1) on the road Sept. 2, a 1-1 draw that the Greenies led until the final two minutes.
Underclassmen Oliver King ’28 (13 goals) and Davis Campbell ’29 (eight goals) have been formidable up front for 51Âþ», with many of their chances created by Vytis Rimkus ’29 (nine assists) and Presbyterian recruit Wyatt Campbell ’27 (five assists).
Much like last year, the Greenies hang their hats on their defense and a dynamic goalkeeper – sophomore Max Rodriguez ’29 has made 45 saves and comes into Tuesday with seven shutouts. He made two saves in Friday’s 2-0 win at Cary Academy, while Vytis set up goals by Oliver and Wyatt.
51Âþ» has won the last three meetings in its CAA series with Rabun Gap by a combined score of 5-1.