Ardrey Kell edges Ashley to win first NCHSAA 4-A soccer state title

Ally Casey's two second-half goals spark Knights to win.

GREENSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA--The Ardrey Kell Knights claimed their first NCHSAA 4-A Women’s Soccer Championship in their fifth trip to the title game with a 3-2 win against the Ashley Screaming Eagles at UNCG Soccer Stadium on Friday night.

Ardrey Kell junior Ally Casey earned the MVP honors as she finished with two goals, including what turned out to be the game-winner. Casey’s two second-half goals made the difference as the two teams were tied 1-1 at intermission.

Ally Casey scored two goals in the second half for Ardrey Kell and was named the game's MVP / NCHSAA photo

Taylor Suarez opened the scoring in the first half with a goal in the 22nd minute and Ashley’s Karina Peat tied the score in the final five minutes of the first half.

After Casey’s first goal, a handball in the box gave the Screaming Eagles a chance to tie things back up at 2-2, and Savannah Manset took advantage with a successful penalty kick. Casey’s second goal, thanks to an assist from Suarez, was enough to lift the Knights to victory.

The win for Kell avenges a loss in last year’s title game in penalty kicks to Cardinal Gibbons at WakeMed Soccer Park.