FAIRHOPE, Ala.- On April 28, FHS Lady Pirate Soccer defeated Baker Lady Hornets 3-0 in the first round of playoffs at Volanta Stadium.

While the scoreboard favored the winning side, both teams maintained high levels of intensity throughout the game, resulting in a competitive playoff environment until the final whistle. 

Sophomore Chatam Cheney expressed  excitement for the playoff game and the opportunity for the Lady Pirates to continue their season. 

“With the first goal so early on in the game it gave us really good energy for the rest of the match,” Cheney said. “Overall we had a great game and we were all playing for each other knowing we all didn’t want it to be our last game.”

Once the initial playoff nerves settled, the first half of the game developed into a high stakes match. Both teams struggled to maintain sustained possession of the game. The ball remained in the midfield for much of the opening half. 

The Lady Pirates gained the lead in the first half after a goal by senior Hope Wood on an assist by senior Mary Marshall Roberts. 

The Lady Pirates extended their lead immediately following the halftime break. Additionally, playing defensively to protect their one-goal advantage, the team increased their offensive pressure in the opening minutes of the second half with a goal scored by junior Olivia Leathers assisted by freshman Hinata Childers. 

A final goal by sophomore Chatam Cheney, assisted by freshman Callie Giddings, solidified the victory for the Lady Pirates. This match guaranteed a spot in the second round of playoffs. 

“I think that our team’s performance was a perfect example of our hard work and dedication throughout this season,” said Ellie Giddings, sophomore.

The Lady Pirates take on Dotham Lady Wolves tonight, April 30, at 5:30 p.m., at W. C. Majors Field in the elite eight round of playoffs.