Greene Central Rams Stampede Past Goldsboro, March On in NCHSAA Playoffs
One game at a time.
The Greene Central Rams continued their undefeated streak, advancing to 22-0 after a commanding 18-0 win over Goldsboro in the first round of the NCHSAA Playoffs. The top-seeded Rams demonstrated their dominance early in the game and never looked back, propelling them into the next round where they will face #16 seed South Lenoir.
From the onset, Greene Central’s lineup was unstoppable, amassing 11 hits and 12 RBIs. Senior Braden Burress was perfect at the plate, going 2-for-2 with three runs scored and two RBIs, highlighted by a critical line drive to left field that cleared the bases due to an outfield error, enabling all runners, including Burress, to score. Sophomore Will Radford matched the effort, also going 2-for-2 and contributing significantly with one run and four RBIs.
Senior pitcher Austin Hardy dominated on the mound, securing his 10th win of the season by pitching three innings, allowing only one hit, and striking out nine batters. Sophomore Riley Radford provided effective relief, maintaining the shutout with two innings of work and giving up just one hit.
The team's spirit was visibly high, with most players sporting newly dyed blonde hair, a symbol of unity and camaraderie as they entered the playoffs. "It is a little togetherness, something fun the boys can do, have a little bonding and camaraderie," commented the coach on the team's new look.
Reflecting on the performance, the coach praised the team’s comprehensive effort. "I am super happy how the boys did tonight," he said. "I think we had 11 hits, anytime you get double-digit hits, you are doing something right and it was up and down the lineup, it wasn’t just the top, wasn't just the bottom, it was all the way through, and when the subs came through they did damage themselves."
When asked about maintaining focus in a playoff setting where the team is highly favored, the coach emphasized the crucial win-or-go-home nature of the playoffs. "It is win or go home, and the boys understand that. You can’t think about what's coming up the road unless you win the first one," he stated.
A month ago, when questioned about the team's readiness, the coach believed they had yet to peak. His tone has since changed, reflecting satisfaction with their recent form: "I think we have been playing some good baseball since then."
As the Rams prepare for their next challenge against South Lenoir, who defeated Clinton 7-1, they do so with confidence and a strong sense of unity, traits that will be essential as they continue their pursuit of a state championship.
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