Mauldin 1 Dorman 0

A one handed, full stretch save by Mauldin's goalie Curran Smith, a clearance off the goal line by Mauldin defender Leah Young and a set piece goal from a corner, by Mauldin's goal scoring machine, Sarah Schaidle and you have the difference in these two teams nicely summed up. Last night it was the defenders who dominated, the play generally took place on both sides of the center line, as play progressed, we knew one goal would win it. These are two powerful teams, both well coached, both very fit, both fully committed and both understand the nuances of the game. Mauldin extracted revenge when it really mattered for two consecutive defeats on penalties by Dorman.

What also needs comment is the excellent officiating, the best I have seen in high school soccer for as long as I can remember. The officials let the game flow, they were not concerned with trivia offenses and were even handed in their application of the rules. There was a good sprinkling of high school students and the officiating was so good that the student complains were good humored and not emotional.

Finally the soccer facilities. A new, clean ground, an area set aside exclusively for soccer, including a level playing surface covered completely with beautiful real green grass ..... whatever next?.