Graham's girls soccer team faced defeat against Clarke County in the VHSL Class 2 semifinals, losing 4-0. Despite Ella Dales's remarkable achievement of setting the VHSL scoring record with 219 goals, the team struggled against Clarke County's skill and depth. Graham's coach noted a solid first half, where the game remained tied at 0-0, but fatigue set in during the later stages as Clarke County capitalized with crucial goals from Makeena Jarvis and Isabel Aliveto. Dales came close to scoring but was denied, which seemed to diminish the team's confidence. Graham concludes the season with a strong record but loses several key players to graduation.

By the Numbers
  • Graham's record for the season: 22-2.
  • Clarke County's shots advantage: 21-9, with 12-1 in the first half.
State of Play
  • Clarke County will advance to the finals against Poquoson, who won their semifinal 2-0.
  • Graham's players demonstrated resilience, particularly Dales with her scoring opportunities.
What's Next

Clarke County will look to secure another state title, facing Poquoson in the championship match. Graham's team will focus on rebuilding after graduation, aiming to maintain their competitive edge in upcoming seasons.

Bottom Line

Graham showcased a commendable effort in a competitive match against a superior team, leaving behind a legacy of strong performance. Despite the loss, the team's journey and Dales's career highlight the importance of dedication and community support in high school sports.