Crammed in its own end for the first 15 minutes of Tuesday's Interscholastic Athletic Association of Maryland A Conference quarterfinal against No. 2 McDonogh, you wouldn't blame the Mercy girls soccer team for surrendering as shot after shot was directed at its goal. After all, the Eagles had beaten the Magic, 3-0, less than a week ago and also eliminated it in last year's playoffs.

Instead the Magic showed poise, making some slight adjustments to even the playing field and have a chance.

After sophomore midfielder Lexie Niedoba cleanly struck a free kick from 25 yards, inches past the McDonogh wall and just inside the near post, the Magic had a 1-0 lead with 20 minutes to play. More strong defense protected the lead and the Magic moved on to Thursday's semifinal round at Notre Dame Prep.

Mercy coach Albert Oni, who praised the play of center midfielder Jordan Stenger, said last year's playoff experience against McDonogh, a 1-0 semifinal setback that was decided late in the game, played a big role in Tuesday's outcome.

"I think it shows the character of our kids," he said. "The experience last year is what has driven us all season. Win, lose or draw you can't take away that experience we gained and the kids knew they could play with McDonogh."