The Ocean Lakes varsity girls soccer team defeated Great Bridge High School with a final score of 1-0. The win brings their record to 2-1, and ranks the team No. 5 in the 757 despite previously being unranked, according to the Virginian-Pilot.
The Lady Dolphins faced the Wildcats on March 28, 2025, at Great Bridge High School.
“I am super proud of our win. Although some people may have viewed us as the underdogs, we didn’t let that stop us and just played our best. I think this is just the start of an amazing season,” senior and captain Avery Hunn said.
In the previous 2024 season, the Lady Dolphins faced the Wildcats and tied. This year, the team was determined to win. Great Bridge was previously ranked No. 4 and was led by two Division I commits. Senior captain and center forward, Audrey Orrock is committed to James Madison University and senior goalkeeper Lexi Miller, is committed to Longwood University.
Throughout the game, many spectators would vocalize comments that were often targeted at Ocean Lakes. For example, the crowd would say “You can’t do that,” “Weight room,” and “That’s illegal.”
“We all kept our composure while it was quite hard due to the comments that were being made from the opposing teams fans,” sophomore Addison Duprey said.“Our team played well and really connected together. We all made smart decisions when it was needed.”
During the first half of the game, the two teams were both competitive. In the 23rd minute, senior Vivian Wolfe received a cross from senior Madison Moore and scored against the Wildcats.
“Scoring in the first half was amazing. It brought on excitement for me and the whole team, while still feeling anxious knowing we had another half to fight through,” Vivian said. “Madison and I practice plays like that often. It helps us work on our finishing and passing so we are ready for the game.”
Captain and varsity goalkeeper Marlie Smith managed to save six shots on goal, including two 1v1 saves.
“Marlie’s incredible saves at the goal definitely helped us win the game,” Madison said.
In the second half of the game, the tension was high. Both teams knew how the other played and were prepared for their skills and tactics.
“The team played well together and kept their focus. They never stopped working,” varsity girls soccer head coach Christine Thornton said.
There were many shots taken by the Wildcats, however, none successfully entered the goal due to Marlie blocking them. As the clock started ticking, Great Bridge started to feel the pressure.
Each team became more aggressive on the field and strived to score, but there was not enough time left on the clock for the Wildcats to equalize. Ocean Lakes was victorious in the end with a current record of 2-1. They hope to keep a successful season going.
“For the future, I want the team to stay positive and remain ready to work hard for each other. With spirit, determination and goals they set for themselves. I see this team improving and getting stronger throughout each game,” Thornton said.
