The number one team in the N.C. High School Athletic Association 4A boys soccer state playoffs has been knocked out.

During a face-to-face discussion between two competing teams in the Cap 6 Conference, Cardinal Gibbons (ranked 13th) surprised Leesville Road (ranked 1st) by defeating them in the fourth round of playoffs on Thursday.

The Crusaders managed to score one goal in each half and prevented the Pride from scoring, resulting in a 2-0 victory and securing their spot in the state semifinals next week.

In the 25th minute, Cardinal Gibbons took the lead with a goal scored by Matthew Ahr after receiving a rebound from Cade Lexa’s missed shot.

The Crusaders maintained their 1-0 advantage at halftime and for the majority of the second half.

Leesville Road had multiple opportunities to equalize the score, however, the Pride was unable to take advantage.

In the 76th minute, Luke Mackenzie scored the second goal for the Crusaders, extending their lead to two goals with just over four minutes remaining in the game.

Cardinal Gibbons has secured a spot in the 4A eastern regional championship and will be facing off against (15) Apex Friendship on Tuesday night. The victor of this match will move on to compete in the 4A state championship next weekend.

In the fourth round, Apex Friendship emerged victorious with a score of 2-1 against Chapel Hill, who had a score of 6.

The season for Leesville Road concluded with a record of 17 wins, 6 losses, and 2 ties.

Source: highschoolot.com