By David Rogers. BOONE, N.C. — Jumping out to a 2-0 lead over Cox Mill, the Watauga junior varsity men’s soccer team was in perilous territory even if eventually winning the day, 3-1.
“A 2-0 lead is dangerous,” said Watauga JV head coach Vern Collins after all was said an done. “It is still close enough that the opponent can rally and close the gap. And it is also wide enough that your team could get a bit complacent. You have to finish.”
Finishing is what Collins and his staff have been emphasizing the last few weeks during the early, non-conference portion of the 2023 season — and that attention to detail paid dividends against the visiting Chargers. While Cox Mill dropped in a second half goal to narrow the gap, to 2-1, the Pioneers responded with a late goal and played good defense the rest of the way.
SELECTED INDIVIDUAL STATS
- Lucas Hamilton: 1 goal, 1 assist
- David Ganley: 1 goal
- Noah Van Werkhoven: 1 goal
- Shiris Kandel: 1 assist
- Tegan Martinez: 1 shot on goal
- Trace Martinez: 1 shot on goal
