The Lakewood Leopards opened the Carolina 1A/2A Conference soccer tournament with a strong 3-0 shutout over the North Duplin Rebels on a rain-soaked field Monday night.

Due to West Columbus forfeiting to East Bladen, Lakewood accepted the challenge and handled the cards that were dealt. Despite heavy rainfall throughout the match, the Leopards maintained control from start to finish, punching their ticket to face county rival Hobbton in the next round.

The Leopards dominated early possession, keeping the ball on North Duplin’s side of the pitch while working through slick conditions that made footing difficult. After several close attempts, freshman Brandon Martinez broke through at the 10-minute mark, sending a clean strike into the net for the game’s first goal.

Minutes later, Lakewoo

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