Boys soccer posts another win

Sisters was scheduled to host the White Buffaloes on Tuesday, September 7, but due to the poor air quality the game was moved to Madras. The Outlaws faced a well-coached and aggressive squad, but prevailed with a 2-1 victory.

Temperatures were in the high 80s and fatigue was definitely a factor for the Outlaws as they do not use a lot of subs.

Ricky Huffman’s aggressive play got the Outlaws on the scoreboard just one minute into the contest, with an assist from Vince Christian.

Coach Jeff Husmann told The Nugget that one primary focus for the Outlaws this year is to establish control of the midfield and utilize their wing players, and they were able to do this as the first half unfolded.

Junior Corbin Fredland and senior Gavin Christian both played very smart in their outside midfield positions.

“These guys are scrappy and figure out ways to make life difficult for the opposition,” said Husmann.

Huffman scored again in the 47th minute off a Corbin Fredland assist, and at the half, the Outlaws held a 2-0 lead.

Madras started the second half with aggressive play, and their scoring opportunity came when a foul was called about midway though the half. The White Buff player made a beautiful shot that energized their team, and narrowed the Outlaws lead to one.

The very physical game continued and Sisters had to work hard and focus on what they could control. Fatigue set in, but both teams kept battling.

Sisters doesn’t have a deep bench, but they did rely on Baylor Dyer, Taine Evans, and Will Fogarty to give the team some fresh legs.

“Taine has been working hard at developing both as a goal keeper and field player and has made huge improvements this year,” said Husmann. “Baylor has such an innate understanding of the game and is wicked fast.”

Sisters maintained their composure and walked away with a 2-1 win.

Huffman shared his thoughts with The Nugget.

“The win was very exciting. We all played very hard, and both teams had a lot of hustle and energy, but we were able to hold on to our slim lead. I think our win can be credited to our strong, new defensive line and more specifically our center defender, Sean Alvarez, as well as our skilled sophomore goalie, Austin Dean.”

The Outlaws’ defense played strong throughout the contest. In particular, seniors Noah Pittman and AJ Scholl adapted well to the speed of the White Buffs attackers.

“AJ is one of the team captains and has really developed as a smart and tough defender,” said Husmann. “His perseverance and hard work over the past few years have earned him a well-deserved starting position. Noah continues to assert his athleticism and learns something each game.”

Husmann told The Nugget that the Outlaws are relentless, and are really beginning to come together as a team. They are also understanding the importance of leaning on each other to accomplish a common goal.

“There will be adversity in any game, and in the season as a whole, and the more we can lean on each other, the stronger we will be. Players are buying into our philosophy and it is showing in how we play the game,” said Husmann.

The Outlaws were scheduled to play at La Pine on September 9, but the game was canceled due to smoke. They hope to reschedule.

Sisters will play at Stayton on Thursday, September 16.