Richlands knocks WHS
from soccer playoffs

WHS senior Ian Hooks

The Whiteville High School soccer team, playing in the second-round of the state 2A playoffs for the first time ever, was overwhelmed by the visiting Richlands Wildcats Saturday by a 6-1 score.

Richlands, which competes in the power-packed East Central Conference, ran to a 4-0 first-half lead over the Wolfpack.

Whiteville got its lone goal with 10 minutes left in the game on a kick by senior Ian Hooks.

Coach Mike Buckpitt’s Wolfpack closed its season with an 11-12 record, but posted a runnerup finish in the Waccamaw/Southeastern 1A-2A Conference. The Wolfpack posted a 9-3 record in conference play and handed league champion East Bladen its only setback in conference play.

As the top finishing 2A team in the Waccamaw/Southeastern Conference, Whiteville earned a first-round bye in the playoffs.

Richlands, which finished third in the East Central Conference behind Swansboro and Croatan, will travel Wednesday to take on Swansboro for a third-round rematch.

“Richlands is as tough a No. 3 seed as you’re going to find,” Buckpitt said. “They have a whole lot of individual talent and they play well together.

“Our kids have had a good season, and I’m proud of all of them,” Buckpitt added.