The eighth-ranked Albemarle Bulldogs played like their mascot, refusing to allow the Wolverines attackers to capitalize on most of their opportunities.
The lone goal for Polk came in the 59th minute on a 35-yard free kick by forward Davie Abril, but Albemarles Shane McConlogue had already scored twice at that point.
Polk was unable to net an equalizer and McConlogue assisted on an insurance goal late in the second half.
The loss was the fifth-ranked Wolverines second on the season, leaving their final record at 17-2-3; it was also their most disappointing. Some players laid motionless on the field afterwards, others threw off their shirts in frustration as the Bulldogs celebrated advancing to the semifinals.
Still, Polk controlled the ball for the majority of the game, outshooting Albemarle 12-7 and winning eight corners to their one. They just couldnt finish when they needed to.
Having midfielder Cole Weicker on crutches didnt help matters. Weicker led the team in goals scored, and when healthy, is their fastest player.
You cant win if you cant put the ball in the goal, said head coach Lennox Charles.
They only had a few good looks but they made the most of them. That allowed them to sit back, absorb pressure and counter. You need a break somewhere sometimes, and we didnt get one, he said.
He also added that, Strangely enough, this team isnt necessarily the most individually talented, but this group had to work so hard to get here, to beat Hendersonville three times… they really pulled together as a team.