The Appling County boys’ soccer team has firm control over Region 3 and has secured a high seed in the upcoming 2A playoffs with only one match remaining in the regular season.
The Pirates’ soccer program has seen immense growth over the past two seasons. In 2023, the team went 4-14, continuing a trend of struggles, as they had not won more than four games in a season from 2019 to 2023. However, the 2024 season marked a turning point. The team started 6-0, finished 15-6, and advanced to the second round of the playoffs.
They currently hold a 10-3 record and are 4-1 in region play, with their only loss coming against Tattnall County. Additionally, they are ranked third in the GHSA postseason rankings. With just one game left in the regular season, it is almost certain they will secure a top-eight seed and enjoy home-field advantage until at least the third round of the playoffs.
The Pirates have been led this season by junior Alan Ramirez, whose 18 goals lead the team by a wide margin, outscoring their second-best scorer by 13 goals. He has been remarkably consistent, scoring at least one goal in eight games. According to MaxPreps, he is the second-leading scorer in 2A, trailing only Josey’s Enrique Jacobo by one goal. In addition to Ramirez’s offensive impact, the team’s defense has been elite, allowing more than two goals in just three games all season.
The playoffs will present a significant challenge for the Pirates. Class 2A features elite teams such as Columbus, Coahulla Creek, Morgan County, and Callaway, all of whom are currently ranked ahead of Appling County. Additionally, Columbus and Coahulla Creek have each won a state championship in the past two years. However, Appling County has the tools to make a deep playoff run and the opportunity to make school history this season.
Around the Class Boys - Columbus boys’ soccer lost a matchup between powerhouses, falling 4-0 to Carrollton. … Morgan County dominated Rutland 10-0 to improve to 6-1 in region play. … Drew Charter won its seventh straight game, moving to 7-1 on the season. … Morgan County baseball swept Rutland in dominant fashion, winning 10-0, 15-0, and 15-0. … Franklin County baseball secured a big 4-2 win over Prince Avenue Christian.
Around the Class Girls - Pike County girls’ soccer saw its seven-game winning streak come to an end with a loss to McIntosh. … East Jackson bounced back from its first two losses of the season with a dominant 7-1 victory over Franklin County. … Coahulla Creek won its third straight game with a 4-1 victory over Murray County.
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