It’s a bounce back year for Santiago Boys Soccer. After what happened last season, all they can do is forget about it and put it behind them. Last year was supposed to be a rebuilding season for the young team, which turned to a season of potential. Although there were four (and sometimes five) seniors starting, there were still four underclassmen in the lineup.
The Sharks lost Derek Ovude , Alfredo Nava, and Trey Foresta (captain), whom were a dangerous trio up top when they were clicking. They have been replaced by a combination of Carlos Torres (11), Kyle Mether (12), and, at times, Danny Castro (12). The biggest obstacle they will have to face is the absence of midfield maestro Adrian Medina and Cesar Hernandez. Medina(11) and Hernandez(10) were part of the deadly Barcelona-like trio with Castro. However, the chance at academy was too enticing to deny.
Same thing, different year. As one of the most talented teams in the league, the one problem the Sharks cannot overcome is putting the ball in the back of the net. So far through four games this season, only five goals have been scored, all coming from one game against Murrieta Valley. The Sharks have huge preseason tests coming up at San Clemente and at home against Chino, which could set them up perfectly for Corona and King, who are once again the favorites to win league, with Corona looking for a three-peat and second team to have multiple undefeated league seasons.
Santiago is normally a possessive team. However, it looks as if that needs to change. The Sharks do not have the personnel to dominate games the way they did last year with “the trio.” Coach Sierra should switch the playing style to defensive and counter-attacking, which complements the players this year. The defense, with Jake Roberts (12), Jye Citizen (11), Tanner Knorr (11), and Jayson Taylor (12), is absolutely stingy, and the best since the undefeated season three years ago. Taylor, with his speed, could be positioned up top to send long balls from the back, and give teams headaches with Castro and Mether as well.
The Sharks will have to figure out something quick if they hope to not only contend for a league title, but also qualify for CIF playoffs.
