MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Baylor girls soccer is heading back to Chattanooga and the TSSAA State Final Four following an impressive 4-0 victory over Briarcrest Christian in Saturday's state quarterfinal match.
Brylee Faulkner delivered a hat trick, scoring three goals to lead the Red Raiders past a tough Briarcrest squad and into the state semifinals.
Baylor wasted little time establishing control of the match. In the 15th minute, Faulkner opened the scoring off a set piece delivered by Reese Rowlett, giving the Red Raiders an early 1-0 advantage.
Just eight minutes later, the combination struck again. Rowlett sent a corner kick into the box, and Faulkner finished for her second goal of the afternoon, sending Baylor into halftime with a 2-0 lead.
The Red Raiders picked up right where they left off in the second half.
In the 42nd minute, goalkeeper Ella Metzner delivered a free kick that Faulkner converted to complete her hat trick and extend Baylor's lead to 3-0.
Helena Lima added the finishing touch in the 70th minute, scoring off a cross from Abby Lewis to secure the 4-0 victory.
Baylor head coach Curtis Blair praised his team's focus and effort following the win.
"Really proud of our entire team today! Our girls did a great job staying focused and playing with great intensity from start to finish," Blair said.
"It is never easy to travel to Memphis and compete against a very well-coached and organized Briarcrest team. Our girls handled the challenge and earned a great win.
"We are going to enjoy this one for a day, then turn our attention to preparing for our next opponent."
Along with Faulkner's three-goal performance, Blair recognized Harley Elam, Kinsley Faulkner, Grace King, and Charlotte Hoss for their outstanding play.
The victory improves Baylor's record to 14-3-2 and sends the Red Raiders back to the State Final Four, where they will have the opportunity to compete for a state championship in Chattanooga next week.
For Baylor, the journey continues, and the opportunity to play for a state title is now just two wins away.
Go Big Red!
#WeAreBaylor
