The Nugget Newspaper - News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

The boys soccer squad fell 5-3 at home to Newport on Tuesday, September 10, and two days later were defeated 5-1 by the Cascade Cougars.

Senior Connor Linn got the Outlaws on the scoreboard with a goal at the six-minute mark in their game against Newport on Tuesday. Linn has been very effective in making it tough on opposing defenders since his move from an outside midfielder to striker.

Coach Jeff Husmann said, “He’s crafty with the ball and has a keen sense for the goal.”

Newport rallied and evened the score. The Cubs went on to score again on a penalty kick, and then from outside the box, to end the half with a 3-1 lead as teams entered the half.

Sisters limited the Cubs to just two shots on goal in the second half, but unfortunately for the Outlaws both shots went in.

The Outlaws scored two additional goals in the second half.

Linn scored a goal early in the half. The Outlaws had three point-blank shots that failed to find the back of the net, and then Linn blasted it below the keeper’s legs and into the back of the cage for the score.

Sisters final goal was off a free kick by Sean Alvarez, who scored on a powerful shot into the right side of the net.

Alvarez said, “It was a good game. Both teams played very well, but Newport just got more goals because of our defensive mistakes. We’re starting to communicate more as a team, and we’re going to continue to get better.”

Husmann noted a few players for their performances.

“Connor (Martin) played extremely well in goal,” said Husmann. “He has strong instincts and is highly coachable and selfless in his commitment to the position. Simon (Rhett) played a tenacious and physical game on defense, and Ethan (Ekert) controlled the midfield. Sean and Nathaniel(Alvarez) did a great job locking down on defense.”

Husmann told The Nugget that the Outlaws’ fitness continues to be an asset as they don’t have the depth that other teams possess.

“We showed that we can compete with strong teams, and the guys are continuing to trust in each other more and playing as a cohesive unit,” said Husmann.

Two days later the Outlaws suffered another loss. Sisters came out flat and the Cougars quickly gained momentum, and at the half the Outlaws were down 3-0.

The Outlaws played a stronger second half with more assertive play, better interchange between the midfield and the strikers, and more physical play from the defense. Nathaniel Alvarez, in particular, was a rock for the Outlaws on the defense.

Cascade scored twice in the second half, and Sisters lone goal came early in the half off a Brody Duey assist to Ricky Huffman.

Oscar Rhett played at the keeper position and did an outstanding job in the goal.

“Oscar has been committed to improving the last few weeks and is motivated to improve,” said Husmann. “His positive attitude and selflessness characterizes this team.”

Simon Rhett also stood out at central defender. He brought physicality to the play and did a fabulous job disrupting Cascade’s attack players.

Husmann said, “Cascade is technically more talented. We couldn’t really find a way to impose our will on the game. They won most of the fifty-fifty balls, especially in the first half.”

“We’re still trying to figure out what is our strongest combination of players to put out on the pitch to make us more competitive,” added Husmann.

The Outlaws were to play at Woodburn on Tuesday, September 17. They will host Philomath on Thursday.