The top-seeded Chaparral girls soccer team has been a powerhouse under coach Robyn Carlson’s leadership for years now.

On Saturday afternoon, the dominance continued en route to a comfortable 3-1 victory against No. 7 Arizona College Prep in the 5A state championship.

“The girls came out and played their game from start to finish,” Carlson said.

Chaparral applied sustained pressure to the Arizona College Prep defense throughout the first half, and its efforts were rewarded with two goals.

The first one came from senior midfielder Kiana Knudson after she connected with a cross.

The second came from senior forward Ava Hinske from close range, assisted by junior forward Delaney Hawkins, who caused havoc on the right wing all game long.

Arizona College Prep wasn’t able to create much pressure of its own in the opening half. Its most notable chance came from a set piece in which sophomore goalkeeper Shay Spoor showcased her aerial strength while catching a dangerous ball.

In the second half, the pressure from Chaparral continued but Arizona College Prep’s junior goalkeeper Aubrey Maruska came up big on a few occasions. However, Hinske scored again, connecting with another Hawkins’ cross that seemed like the exact same setup.

Hinske was the leading goal scorer for the Firebirds this season with 22 goals. While the Arizona College Prep attack wasn’t as potent, its relentlessness was eventually rewarded as it scored a goal of its own. Near the end of the game, senior forward Katie Stefanovski found the net from close range after the Knights created numerous scoring chances consecutively.

It was the first and only goal the Firebirds’ defense allowed in the playoffs.

“Our defense doesn’t get enough credit, but it held strong the entire season,” Carlson said. “Everyone has to play defense, but our back four and (Spoor) was incredible.”

While it was a disappointing finish, there’s plenty to be proud of for Arizona College Prep. Saturday’s game was its first state championship appearance.

After the game, Arizona College Prep coach Matthew Davis applauded his team’s effort this season.

“I’m just so proud of the way they carried themselves as student athletes,” Davis said. “We know that they left it all out on the field.”

Hinske’s time at Chaparral is coming to an end as she’ll soon be off to Eastern Washington University.

After the game, she took some time to reminisce on a successful high school career.

“It felt surreal because this was my last high school game,” Hinske said. “I’m proud of myself because I’ve been working so hard to get to this game for the entire year.”

Hinske said she’ll miss the family aspect that came with being a part of the program.

She also said she’ll miss Carlson as well. She called Carlson her “best friend” when describing the bond the two have.

“I know I can go to her about anything,” Hinske said. “She gives me such good advice that will stay with me throughout my soccer career and the rest of my life.”

After a disappointing second round ending in last season’s 5A tournament, this year saw Chaparral on top once again. The Firebirds’ dominance under Carlson continues to show itself.