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EXTRA TIME: Previewing the 2025 UIL Soccer State Finals--Stratford v. FM Marcus (Girls 6A-D2)
The pinnacle of the UIL soccer season has arrived, with teams and their fanbases heading to Birkelbach Field in Georgetown for an unforgettable finish.
Kicking off Saturday’s events, the 6A-Division II state final between Stratford and Flower Mound Marcus promises to be a clash of titans.
Stratford has already made history by reaching the state semifinals for the first time, and they’ve taken it a step further with a thrilling 1-0 victory over Austin powerhouse Vandegrift last Friday.
This victory not only earned them a spot in the final but also extended their winning streak to 19 games.
The Spartans, now 22-2-3, have been one of the most dominant teams in the state, combining an effective offense with a disciplined defense.
With 143 goals scored in 27 games (roughly five per match) and only 14 goals conceded, Stratford has been a force to be reckoned with.
Under the leadership of coach David Walters, the Spartans have relied on their veteran captains— Auburn-signee Allison Goodwin (F), Ryann Weber (MF/Samford), Mary-Charlotte Paul (MF), and goalkeeper Olivia Harbison—who have been pivotal throughout their postseason run.
The same can be said for SHSU-commit Sara Benton (Jr. MF) and junior forward Sydney Valentine.
Though they are ranked No. 32 in Texas according to MaxPreps, Stratford has an opportunity to finish at the top of the 6A-Division II rankings with a win on Saturday.
Flower Mound Marcus, from Lewisville ISD, enters the final battle-tested and looking for their third state title.
No. 17-ranked Marcus (18-4-3) has enjoyed yet another tremendous postseason, defeating the defending 6A champions, Prosper, 1-0 last Tuesday, followed by a solid 2-0 win against Forney on Friday.
This marks their eighth appearance in the state tournament, and they’re aiming to add to their championship legacy, having last won the title in 2023 with a 2-0 victory over Ridge Point.
The Erin Smith-led Marauders boast a roster full of talent, with key players such as senior forwards Maddie Hayes and Emma Fioretti (Central Oklahoma-commit), junior defender Piper Garcia (American U), and senior midfielders Hannah Campos and Zemira Dube (Missouri Southern), all of whom have played critical roles in the team’s success.
Senior goalkeeper Aubrey Tipton has also been a standout, consistently coming through in crucial moments, while sophomore captain Ryleigh Albin anchors the back-line.
Saturday’s opener between Stratford and Flower Mound Marcus is sure to be a spectacle, as the two battle for 6A-D2 supremacy at 11:00 AM at Birkelbach Field.
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Seeking a Repeat: Flower Mound Marcus Girls Soccer Ready for Playoffs
After bringing the title home last season, the Flower Mound Marcus Lady Marauders have been focusing their energy into creating another great season for the program. As they gear up to break into the playoffs, VYPE DFW takes a look at their season so far and what fans can expect as they battle forward:
Regular Season Play
Starting their season off with several strong victories over tough opponents, the Lady Marauders showcased their ability to remain at the top. Opening the season with two big victories over Arlington Martin (3-0) and Midlothian (5-0), the team knew they had what it took to take down big opponents. Through non-district play, athletes like Bry Russell, Aubrey Tipton, Dylan Howard, Ella Dunn, Savannah Wylie, Emma Fioretti, and others helped sharpen the program's skill on the field while taking down the likes of Montverde Academy (4-0), Midland (8-0), Harlingen (5-0), and more.
Despite opening district play with two losses and a draw, the team was able to dust off and prepare to continue their season with resiliency and a focused spirit. Posting necessary victories over Plano West (2-0), Plano (5-0), Plano East (7-1), Lewisville (7-0), and others, the Lady Marauders finished fourth in their district standings with a 7-4-3 district record (13-6-4 overall). Securing a playoff spot, the team knew the had to prepare for excellence into the postseason.
What's Ahead
The team is focused on their first playoff game this season as they gear up to take on a tough Allen squad. Given their strong start against formidable opponents and their ability to rally after hard-fought moments, the Lady Marauders are poised to bring a high level of resilience and strategic gameplay into the game against Allen. The team's depth and versatility is a testament to their capacity to secure decisive victories proving that the Lady Marauders are well-prepared to contend with the pressure and intensity that define their upcoming playoff match.
Scheduled to get underway at 6 p.m., the team will face Allen at McKinney ISD Stadium on Monday, March 25.