By Mackenzie Acker and Lucy Stoter

Features Editor and News Editor

    Despite near-freezing temperatures and a weeknight scheduling, the R.J. Reynolds High School student section was packed to the brim for the soccer game vs Hopewell High School. This was the first round playoff game for the men’s soccer team. The lights shone bright on the team, with an incredible season behind them.. With such an important game came the question of whether the demons could make it happen. 

    Starting the first half with a bang, RJR scored a critical goal. Students got up and cheered with blankets wrapped around them. Scored by Luis Llorena, the goal put RJR in a phenomenal position. The scoreboard was 1-0 Reynolds. However, as the game went on, the excitement waned. Passes up and down the field categorized the rest of the first half, only punctuated by the halftime break. 

    After halftime, though, RJR’s defense shone. A blocked shot by Alex Kuhner and hustling by defenders shut down Hopewell’s offense. This performance enabled RJR to hold on to the 1-0 lead and win the game.

    “I was excited to start the playoffs with a strong performance,” Kuhner said. “The win definitely helped us move forward with confidence.” 

    With two wins under their belt, RJR will advance to the third round of the playoffs, playing Marvin Ridge High School at Marvin Ridge. Rain or shine, let’s show out and support our team. Go demons!