East Bladen’s Eagles received a wild card Class 2A state playoff bid Saturday when the NCHSAA released their 2021 boys soccer state playoff brackets.
In this odd year of the coronavirus where conference championships are won by last minute scheduling instead of earning them on the field, St. Pauls’ was awarded the top seed from the Three Rivers Conference even though they lost to East Bladen in their only head-to-head meeting.
So, the Eagles were selected as a wild card with their 8-1 record. Seeding was done by a blind draw and the Eagles will be the No. 11 seed in the East and will travel to No. 6 Roanoke Rapids for their first round game against the 5-3 Yellowjackets, the co-champions of the Northern Carolina Conference.
“They have athletic kids up top and one can score,” said East Bladen Coach Jay Raynor. “I honestly think we are playing someone who’s similar to us.”
Senior Josh Miller leads the Yellowjacket offense with 17 goals. Miller has posted 3 ‘Hat Tricks’ in 8 games. Roanoke Rapids shared their league championship with Class 1A Granville Central. The Yellowjackets three losses were to Granville Central (6-3), Rocky Mount (3-1) and Wilson Prep (5-3).
Senior Garrett Melvin sparks the East Bladen attack with 21 goals and 11 assists. He has recorded 5 ‘Hat Tricks’ in 9 games.
St. Pauls drew the No. 9 seed and will travel to No. 8 McMichael. West Columbus was the Three Rivers lone 1A representative and drew the No. 1 1A Eastern seed. The Vikings will host No. 16 Neuse Charter.
About Author
