The Nugget Newspaper - News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

The boys soccer squad had another big week, which included a 2-0 shut on the road against Pleasant Hill on Monday, October 3, and, two days later, a 5-0 win on the road against Crosshill Christian.

Tuesday’s match-up was a critical one, as both Sisters and Pleasant Hill entered the contest undefeated in league play.

Coach Jeff Husmann said, “Some of the keys for the game were a unified defensive effort, tight marks on their target players, and players going forward as part of the attack.”

It was a very physical game, particularly the first half. Gus Patton, at center back, played an especially strong game for the Outlaws. Patton and Jesse Polachek continually shut down the Billie’s strikers, and didn’t let them turn and get an easy view of the goal. Micah Dachtler also played a smart defensive game, and according to Husmann has developed into a very versatile and reliable player.

Pleasant Hill did get some opportunities to score, but the Outlaws weathered their attacks, and their tenacious defense frustrated the Billies as they are used to scoring goals.

In the 25th minute of play, the Outlaws got the edge over the Billies, when Austin Dean made a powerful run and scored through the middle of their defense. Husmann noted that Dean creates a lot of chaos for the other team because of his scrappy play.

At the half, Sisters held a slim 1-0 advantage.

Sisters knew the Billies would come out in the second half and try to get the momentum, but the Outlaws were confident, started out strong, and worked as a unit. The Outlaws continued to press, stymied Pleasant Hill’s attack, which added to the Billies’ frustration.

Late in the second half, Tate Kaczmarek made a powerful turn at the edge of the box and laced it into the corner of the net. The Outlaws held onto their 2-0 lead up to the final whistle.

Husmann said, “We finally put together the game we are capable of playing, and we’re coming together at the right time of the season.”

Goalkeeper Corbin Fredland, along with the defense, recorded the shut out.

The game against Crosshill Christian (CC) was played at Jefferson High School. Husmann told The Nugget the field was a factor and the Outlaws struggled to find their handle on the ball.

The Outlaws finally scored when Jesse Polachek knocked one in. Polachek made a run forward from the back, dribbled through several defensive players, and ripped a beautiful shot midway through the first half.

Several younger Outlaw players got time on the field and were able to show what they were capable of. Sophomore Andrew Islas showed both coaches and players why he belongs on the varsity pitch. Islas subbed in as a striker and showed a high work rate on both sides of the ball, and created a couple of key looks. Sophomore Danny Benson exhibited confidence as an outside midfielder with his physical play and solid ball handling.

Husmann said, “These guys are peaking at the right time, and will be part of our postseason run.”

Just before the half, Vincent Christian made a solo run through the middle of the pitch, and blasted a shot into the net to put the Outlaws on top 2-0 at halftime.

Sisters found their rhythm in the second half, and got goals from Aidan Eckert, Christian, and Taine Martin.

Husmann said, “Taine played a solid game in the midfield. He has such an engine and is great at prying the ball away from players. He doesn’t get a lot of opportunities to scores, so it was awesome to see him get one.”

Sisters wrapped up their scoring and recorded the 5-0 win.

Husmann told The Nugget that the Outlaws are playing a very balanced brand of soccer, and are excited for the stretch ahead.

Crosshill Christian exhibited classy sportsmanship at the close of the game and provided pizza for the Outlaws players and coaches.

“It’s sometimes easy to get lost in the game, and forget that it’s really about something much larger,” said Husmann. “The boys and coaches were greatly appreciative. There needs to be more of this where it is more about coming together than us vs. them.”

The Outlaws will play at Santiam Christian on Thursday, October 13.