The Nugget Newspaper - News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

The Outlaws boys soccer team faced top-seeded Oregon Episcopal (OE) in the second round of state playoffs without two of their strongest and most experienced players, Aidan Eckert and Vincent Christian, one out due to penalty and the other due to injury. The OE Aardvarks only had one loss on the season and the Outlaws knew they were in for an uphill battle. Sisters battled hard throughout the contest but lost 0-3.

Coach Jeff Husmann told The Nugget that the Outlaws’ plan was to “gum up the middle of the field, get all of their guys behind the ball, defend as a unit, and hope they could spring a big ball over the top to catch them out of position.”

Oregon Episcopal is a strong team with great technical skills. In the eighth minute of play, the Outlaws’ had a botched play in the midfield, which allowed the Aardvarks to catch them disorganized on defense and score first.

Sisters hoped to keep the game within reach and find a way to score, but their plan became more difficult after the Aardvarks scored again in the 28th minute.

At the half the Outlaws trailed 0-2.

Sisters could have folded but they came out with determination and energy in the second half.

The Aardvarks controlled most of the possession, but the Outlaws did have a few chances. Unfortunately they couldn’t find the back of the net.

“We played the kind of game we planned in the second half, but their skill and depth of bench began to tax our players, some of whom have not played as much throughout the season,” said Husmann.

One of those players was junior Logan Ryba, who Husmann said is a physical player who embraces his role on the team. Husmann added that he is stoked Ryba has one more year to play.

With 10 minutes left on the clock, OE scored, and put the game out of reach.

Husmann noted Taine Martin, who he said played an energized and effective game.

“Taine has mostly been a super-sub for us this season, playing minutes either as a forward or midfielder,” said Husmann. “It can be difficult to be a senior and not get the minutes you would like. However, Taine’s attitude has been so positive all year and he brings such a high work rate. He played the best match of his career and has been such a strong part of this team.”

Husmann reflected on the loss in the context of the season.

“Of course we were sad with the loss, but we put together a great season,” he said. “Just a few years ago we won just two games, and this year we won league and made it to the second round of the tournament. It was an emotional end to a beautiful season. This is the first group of young men I have coached all four years. The seniors have helped us rebuild and establish a culture of success and positivity that have come to define this team. I am so grateful to be their coach. We have a passionate and supportive group of players and families, and I love the support of the community.”

Husmann noted that a huge part of the Outlaws’ increased success has been due to Coach Roger Alvarez. and Kevin Eckert.