By Luke Wiggs, Panhandle News Network Sports
Charles Town, W.Va. – The Patriots Boys soccer team had a flair for the dramatic last season. Washington won 3 consecutive playoff games in extra time before their season was ended by Morgantown.
“We were kind of winning by the skin of our teeth.” Said assistant coach Anton Wenner through a grin of his own.
Unfortunately, a new season brings a lot of change with the Patriots losing their 3 top scorers in Jack Walker (21 goals), Will Morgan (10) and Erik Estrada (5). The quest is now on to find their replacement.
“We’re looking at Sam Segura and Bryant Rodrigez. I feel like they are going to come out very strong this season.” Wenner said. “I’m hoping to see strong things from them this season.”
Segura netted 3 goals last season for the Patriots who scored an impressive 56 goals in 22 games.
Washington will also be looking for a new shot-stopper after the graduation of Ryan Johnson, but coach Wenner is more than confident in his replacement.
“We have Logan Glover, a senior who has been playing for us for a long time,” Wenner said. “I’m very confident in his ability.”
Schematically, Washington figures to be very unique running a system with a high dependency on wing backs both offensively and defensively.
“I like to adapt the strategy with the wing backs playing deeper if we’re struggling or playing higher if we are seeing a lot of success.” Wenner said. “They’re pretty critical to the formation and making it work.”
Defensively, the Patriots will be anchored by senior Michael Groh and Mason Harding. Washington kept 5 clean sheets last season.
Washington opens up the season on September 1st, against Martinsburg
