KINGSPORT — Cradic Magic appears to be much more than just a passing trend for Dobyns-Bennett’s girls soccer team.
Senior forward Carlee Cradic, fresh off her eight-goal day at the Smoky Mountain Cup, led the Lady Indians to their second District 1-AAA victory Tuesday night. She scored twice in the first half, spearheading D-B’s 3-0 victory over Tennessee High at Indian Highland Park.
“I know my team needed me to fill this role this year. I have everyone behind me, and that’s what builds up to all my goals,†said Cradic, who’s currently up for Sports Illustrated High School Athlete of the Week. Voting runs through Sunday. “I have an amazing team behind my back.â€
The transition from midfield to striker has been a smooth one, to say the least. Having scored 15 goals her entire junior season, Cradic might surpass that by the end of this week. Tuesday’s outing gave her 11 goals just five matches into her senior year.
“The striker position is kind of new for me,†Cradic admitted. “The midfield is kind of my home. Being up here, I just feel the pressure to score, and I want to do well for my team.â€
That she has to this point.
Cradic broke the scoreless tie in the 16th minute, taking a pass from freshman sister Eden Cradic on the right side of the six-yard box and finding the back of the net for D-B (4-0-1, 2-0 District 1-AAA).
The sisters reversed roles just after the second half. Carlee assisted Eden, who plays primarily on the forward right wing, on a set piece in the 44th minute, what turned out to be the final score.
“It’s honestly a blessing,†Carlee said. “We play three sports together — track, basketball and soccer. We share a special bond. I love playing with her.â€
The elder Cradic scored her second goal in the 33rd minute. Hailey Cline fired a one-touch pass to Cradic, who sprinted down the left side of the pitch and went one-on-one with the keeper, going low and away for a 2-0 halftime lead.
Kaylee Menya tallied another clean sheet for the Lady Indians, saving both of Tennessee High’s shots on goal.
“That was one of our big question marks going into this year is who we’re going to get to play goalkeeper,†D-B coach Tony Weaver said. “Kaylee has played some in club, and they said she’s getting a lot better. It was just great to see her come out and perform. She’s so coachable. That’s what makes her extremely special. She soaks everything in.â€
Mariah Skeens made seven saves for the Lady Vikings (1-4-1, 1-2), who rejoined District 1-AAA this season after reaching the Class AA state semifinals a year ago.
D-B dominated in shots taken 17-4, and 10-2 on goal.
UP NEXT
Both teams are back in action Thursday with district matches. Dobyns-Bennett welcomes David Crockett, and Tennessee High entertains Daniel Boone.
