2A region soccer: Tampa Prep books return trip to state

TAMPA — Tampa Prep advanced to the state final four, beating Bradenton St. Stephen's 4-1 on Friday.

"It's always tough to get back to states," Tampa Prep coach Pam Smith said. "We passed the ball, moved it well and we were able to get the victory."

The Terrapins started the scoring early. Paige Goodwin scored on a corner kick from Megan Wall six minutes in. Five minutes later Colby Maffei scored by knocking in a rebound.

St. Stephens' (14-3-1) sophomore Ashley Falkner scored on a cross from Alyssa Jones with three minutes remaining in the half to make it 2-1 at halftime.

"I always say 2-0 in the worst lead in soccer. We were dominating and then let off a bit," Smith said. "I told the girls we had to pick it up in the second half and play Prep soccer."

Tampa Prep (18-3-3) controlled the second half, limiting the Falcons to zero shots while taking seven of their own. Maffei scored twice in the half on passes from Wall to notch a hat trick and secure the victory.

"I knew we had to step it up in the second half," Maffei said. "I'm happy I was in the right place to score some goals."

Shannon Morrish played well for St. Stephen's, totaling six saves in the game.

The Terrapins will play their state semifinal close to home — at the University of Tampa.

"It will be nice to play in our own back yard next week," Smith said.