#6 Thatcher vs. #11 Yuma Catholic Preview
February 12th at 6pm
Thatcher High School (14-3-1) enters the 3A state playoffs as a top contender, facing off against Yuma Catholic (10-6) in a highly anticipated first-round matchup. The Eagles boast a balanced attack, led by Kalli Bingham (31 goals) and Adysen Smith (30 goals), while Tyla Bryce (23 assists) provides key playmaking. Defensively, goalkeeper Kayla Turley (1.165 GAA) anchors a Thatcher squad that has allowed just 26 goals all season.
Yuma Catholic counters with an explosive offense, spearheaded by Janessa Lugo (34 goals, 28 assists, 129 shots) and a high-pressure defense that has tallied 436 steals. The Shamrocks average 6.7 goals per game, but Thatcher’s disciplined defense and strong second-half play could be the difference.
Both teams split results against common opponents Coolidge and Benjamin Franklin.
#7 Safford vs. #10 Florence Preview
February 12th at 6pm
Safford (10-4-1) enters the first round of the 3A state playoffs as a strong contender against Florence (8-7) in what looks to be a battle of efficiency versus resilience.
The Safford Bulldogs boast a high-powered offense, averaging 5.2 goals per game, with Trynity Dominguez (25 goals, 78 shots) leading the way. Luz Mendoza (13 assists) is a key playmaker, and defensively, goalkeeper Robyn Motes has helped hold opponents to just 23 goals all season (1.804 GAA). Safford’s balanced attack make them a dangerous opponent.
Florence, while a lower seed, has shown grit this season. They rely on second-half scoring (1.0 goals per second half), but their lack of available stats makes it difficult to assess their key contributors. A 10-0 loss to Benjamin Franklin, whom Safford only lost 2-0 against, suggests a tougher road for Florence in this matchup.
#11 Thatcher at #6 ALA – Ironwood Preview
February 11th at 6pm
The Thatcher Eagles (10-8-1) look to advance in the 3A state playoffs, but they’ll need to overcome a strong defensive opponent in ALA – Ironwood (9-6).
Thatcher’s offense has been led by Callum Winkler (14 goals, 18 shots on goal) and Kody Bingham (7 assists, 11 goals), contributing to the team’s 53 total goals this season. However, slow starts have been an issue, as the Eagles average just 0.3 goals in the first half.
In goal, Ethan Griffin (1.244 GAA, 60 saves) has provided a solid last line of defense. He could be tested against an ALA – Ironwood attack featuring Anthony Aguilar (15 goals, 58 shots) and Adrian Aguilar (16 assists). ALA’s defense has also been elite, allowing just 13 goals all season (0.727 GAA) behind standout goalkeeper Connor Baker.
