South Lenoir continues dominant start with 9-0 victory over Eastern Wayne

Photo Submitted by: Jody Turner

DEEP RUN, N.C. — South Lenoir’s Blue Devils continued their impressive start to the season with a commanding 9-0 victory over Eastern Wayne on Thursday night. The win marks the third consecutive triumph for the Blue Devils, who have outscored their opponents 24-1 so far this season.

Micheal Chavez led the charge with four goals, contributing to his season total of eight goals and two assists. Brandon Ortiz and Ulises Carrizales added to the onslaught with two goals each, while Yeshua Perez chipped in with a goal and two assists. Goaltender Leonardo Espinoza made nine saves, bringing his season total to 17.

Earlier this week, South Lenoir defeated North Duplin 6-1 and Ayden-Grifton 9-0, setting the stage for a 3-0 start that has fans and players alike buzzing with excitement.

Head Coach Jody Turner reflected on the team’s success, attributing it to a long-term vision and commitment to a winning culture:

“The success we’re enjoying now began three years ago when SL hired me as head coach. I asked those teams, my first two years, to invest in the style of play and program I envisioned for the future of SL Soccer. They sacrificed and trusted the process. Changing the culture was a major overhaul! Those teams built the foundation, and this year’s team is adding on to the promising future of a winning program. There’s a lot of fingerprints of former and current players on this program.”

Season stats for key players after three games are as follows:

• Micheal Chavez: 8 goals, 2 assists, 18 points

• Brandon Ortiz: 4 goals, 3 assists, 11 points

• Ulises Carrizales: 9 goals, 3 assists, 21 points

• Yeshua Perez: 1 goal, 4 assists, 6 points

South Lenoir’s next match is scheduled for next Tuesday at Eastern Wayne. With the momentum of a strong start behind them, the Blue Devils look to continue their winning streak.