Washburn bests East Grand in play-in game

WASHBURN, Maine — The Washburn girls soccer team advanced to the next round of the playoffs following a 2-1 victory over East Grand Thursday in a Class D North “play-in” game.

Both teams performed admirably, but No. 16 Washburn (2-12 overall) was able to break its string of losses, and come out on top with the victory. Washburn plays No. 1 Wisdom (12-2) Saturday in the preliminary playoffs at 11 a.m.

“The girls played very tough, it was a good matchup. We played them a couple of weeks ago, and came out on top 8-1, and we played them again and came out on top, but I think it was evenly matched,” said Washburn Coach Marcy Barbarula.

In Thursday’s game, it was the No. 17 Vikings (0-12) who came out kicking in the first half, with an early goal by Tori Gilman at 31:06, assisted by Emma Davis. The Beavers were quick to retaliate, however, as Hannah Scott netted Washburn a goal at 27:56

With one early goal each, both teams repeatedly pressed the attack against each other, but the defenses held strong. 

Washburn’s Maddie Johnson was able to break the tie as she scored with just 35 seconds remaining in the first half off a pass from Scott.

In the second half, the Vikings repeatedly tried pushing through the Beavers defense, while Washburn doubled down, determined to keep its first half lead. East Grand’s Madison Napley was repeatedly quick to clear the ball from the Vikings defensive line, while Washburn’s Jaicie Carney continuously pushed the attack.

Washburn Goalie Madison Elliot and East Grand Goalie Jayden Williams, both had 12 saves each.

“As my first year of coaching soccer, I think this is a wonderful team to start out with, and I wouldn’t want it with anybody else,” said East Grand Coach Orion Merrill.