As we come to the middle of the season, the Highline men’s soccer team has truly shown how powerful of a team they can be. With a new head coach, and a demanding set of sophomores, this team truly has what it takes to be a winning team.
The team is currently has an impressive 9-2-1 record this season, and have gone 8-1 within the NWAC west conference.
Last Saturday, the Thunderbirds had an outstanding performance at their home field, having a dominating 6-1 win against Tacoma CC, continuing a perfect record at home.
The match started strong for Highline. Goals scored by Freshmen Zachary Bartlett and Preston Salisbury put the team on top, 2-0.
Through the first half, Thunderbirds put up two saves, one corner kick, and had seven shots attempted.
As the second half went on, Highline proved how strong their sophomore core was, with outstanding goals by Reon Tezuka, Mason Abdella, and Anthony Naranjo. Freshman Indin Fakhri scored the last goal to secure the win.
These boys kept the energy up, showing true teamwork throughout the game. When the team is able to take a lead, they keep it going and leave it all out on the field.
In an interview with sophomore Tezuka, we asked a few questions about how the season has been going.
Q: Men’s soccer is about halfway through the season, what is something that you are looking forward to as the season comes to an end?
Tezuka: “That’s obvious, I’m only looking for the NWAC championship. We lost in the finals last season, which motivated me a lot this season. There’s no reason we’re going to lose again in the championship.”
Q: The team is currently 9-2 on the season, what is something that has influenced your team’s success?
Tezuka: “I think the coaches have a huge influence on our success. Our players always work hard to understand the coach’s tactics.”
Centralia College hosts the Thunderbirds in Centralia for an exciting conference matchup on Saturday, Oct. 19. The following week, there is another home match against South Puget Sound CC on Wednesday, Oct. 23.
We wish the soccer team a great rest of the season, as they keep fighting for the NWAC title. Go T-birds!