<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0"
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
	xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
	xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
	xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
	xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
	>

<channel>
	<title>Boys Soccer Archives - Sporting Times</title>
	<atom:link href="https://stfanclub.com/category/boys-soccer/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>https://stfanclub.com/category/boys-soccer/</link>
	<description>For the athletes &#124; For the game</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Thu, 26 Sep 2024 17:03:24 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	<language>en-US</language>
	<sy:updatePeriod>
	hourly	</sy:updatePeriod>
	<sy:updateFrequency>
	1	</sy:updateFrequency>
	<generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1</generator>

<image>
	<url>https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/cropped-512x512_square-logo_72-32x32.jpg</url>
	<title>Boys Soccer Archives - Sporting Times</title>
	<link>https://stfanclub.com/category/boys-soccer/</link>
	<width>32</width>
	<height>32</height>
</image> 
	<item>
		<title>Power 5 on the Pitch</title>
		<link>https://stfanclub.com/power-5-on-the-pitch/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=power-5-on-the-pitch</link>
					<comments>https://stfanclub.com/power-5-on-the-pitch/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Perry Swack]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 12 Sep 2024 12:49:17 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Boys Soccer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Soccer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bowling Green Purples]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Glasgow Scotties]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Greenwood Gators]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South Warren Spartans]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Warren Central Dragons]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://stfanclub.com/?p=23255</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Bowling Green Purples </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/power-5-on-the-pitch/">Power 5 on the Pitch</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p><em>Bowling Green remains atop the pack at the midseason point</em></p>



<p><strong>Boys Soccer Power Rankings</strong></p>



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Bowling Green 7-1-0</strong></li>
</ol>



<p><strong>Outlook:</strong> The Purples enter the second half of the season undefeated to go along with multi-goal victories in each of their first seven matches. <strong>Braden Widener</strong> may be splitting his time between the gridiron and the pitch, but the senior’s production has been anything but split. Widener leads Bowling Green in goals (8) and assists (7). The BG defense has allowed only two goals all season and is anchored by senior goalkeeper <strong>Henderson Wiggins</strong></p>



<p><strong>Next Up:</strong> Warren Central (Thursday)</p>



<ol start="2" class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>South Warren 5-2-3</strong></li>
</ol>



<p><strong>Outlook:</strong> South Warren checks in at #2 in our power rankings after a strong first month of play. The Spartans swept crosstown rival Greenwood and took the first tie over Warren Central to sit in second in the 14th District standings. Sophomore <strong>Aid Becirovic</strong> leads the team with eight goals and four assists. A road date at Central looms next week; a win over the Dragons would keep South’s chance at the #1 seed in the district tournament alive.</p>



<p><strong>Next Up:</strong> at Madisonville-North Hopkins (Friday), vs. Marshall County (Saturday @ MNH), at Warren Central (Tuesday)</p>



<ol start="3" class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Warren Central 7-2-2</strong></li>
</ol>



<p><strong>Outlook:</strong> Warren Central has played an impressive early-season schedule, picking up wins over two teams in the 2023 state tournament (Ashland Blazer and McCracken County). Junior <strong>Mzaliwa Noel</strong> has continued his fine form into 2024, leading the team with 12 goals to go with seven assists. Sophomore <strong>Daniel Rivas</strong> has nine assists to go with six goals as well. A big week awaits with matches at Bowling Green and home dates with Owensboro and South Warren will show the Dragons where they are heading into the final stretch of the regular season.</p>



<p><strong>Next Up:</strong> at Bowling Green (Thursday), Owensboro (Saturday), South Warren (Tuesday)</p>



<ol start="4" class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Greenwood 7-0-6</strong></li>
</ol>



<p><strong>Outlook:</strong> Year Two of the Eric Bowers Era has been a season of highs and lows for the Gators. Greenwood rebounded from an 0-5 start to the season with seven straight wins, outscoring opponents 36-7 in the process. A last-second defeat to South Warren this week ended the streak, but the Gators have found momentum heading into the season’s final stretch. Junior <strong>Pleh Reh</strong> leads the way with eight goals, while junior <strong>Joe Padgett</strong> has scored seven goals to go with a team-best eight assists.</p>



<p><strong>Next Up:</strong> Daviess County (Tuesday), at Bowling Green (Thursday, 9/19), North Hardin (9/21)</p>



<ol start="5" class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Glasgow 10-0-4</strong></li>
</ol>



<p><strong>Outlook:</strong> Glasgow takes the final spot in our <em>Power 5</em> after upending fellow contender Franklin-Simpson over the weekend in the Kentucky 2A Championships. Junior <strong>Jared Malagon</strong> leads the team with 25 goals, good enough for second in the state at the time of this article’s publication.&nbsp; Senior winger <strong>Darwin Hernandez</strong> is among the state’s leaders with 14 assists. The Scotties have won nine of the last ten district championships and currently sit atop the 15th District standings.</p>



<p><br><strong>Next Up:</strong> LaRue County (Thursday), Barren County (Tuesday)</p>



<p></p>



<p>Next Teams Up: Franklin-Simpson, Todd County Central</p>



<p>Return to <a href="http://stfanclub.com">home</a></p>



<p></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/power-5-on-the-pitch/">Power 5 on the Pitch</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
					<wfw:commentRss>https://stfanclub.com/power-5-on-the-pitch/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
			<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>Opportunities Await</title>
		<link>https://stfanclub.com/opportunities-await/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=opportunities-await</link>
					<comments>https://stfanclub.com/opportunities-await/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Perry Swack]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 03 Aug 2023 20:40:42 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Boys Soccer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bowling Green Purples]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Greenwood Gators]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South Warren Spartans]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Warren Central]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://stfanclub.com/?p=22540</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>State’s Deepest District will be Stacked Again By Perry Swack 14th District Boys Preview Bowling Green Purples Coach: Craig Widener, 14th Season (2005-2015, 2021-Present) 2022 Record: 19-3 Won 14th District&#160; Won 4th Region State Semifinalist Losing 9-10 starters from a final four team would mean a rebuild for most programs; however, the Bowling Green Purples are no ordinary program. The reigning 14th District and 4th Region champions have no desire to start from scratch after a run to the state [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/opportunities-await/">Opportunities Await</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p><em>State’s Deepest District will be Stacked Again</em></p>



<p>By Perry Swack</p>



<p></p>



<p><strong>14<sup>th</sup> District Boys Preview</strong></p>



<p></p>



<p><strong>Bowling Green Purples</strong></p>



<p>Coach: Craig Widener, 14th Season (2005-2015, 2021-Present)</p>



<p>2022 Record: 19-3</p>



<p>Won 14<sup>th</sup> District&nbsp;</p>



<p>Won 4th Region</p>



<p>State Semifinalist<br></p>



<p>Losing 9-10 starters from a final four team would mean a rebuild for most programs; however, the Bowling Green Purples are no ordinary program. The reigning 14th District and 4th Region champions have no desire to start from scratch after a run to the state semifinals in 2022. Coach Craig Widener will return only five players with extended varsity minutes. Among those is senior keeper <strong>Jackson Rodgers</strong>. “Jackson had some huge moments last year,” said Widener. “He is turning into an excellent leader and working hard to help the defenders in front of him understand what we are trying to do.” Rodgers made 54 saves and only allowed 20 goals in 19 games a season ago. “It’s really nice to have that on-field coach!” added Widener. “I’m extremely thankful we have him.”</p>



<p>Having won two state championships and eight region championships in 13 seasons at the helm, there always seems to be sky-high expectations for the Bowling Green program under Widener. The winningest coach in KY state history is able to take those expectations in stride. “The only expectations we really place on ourselves are that we will show up and work as hard as we can, every single minute we are together,” he said. “The two big things we can control are how hard we work (effort) and how we approach that work (attitude).”</p>



<p>The Purples will also return striker <strong>Aison Manivong</strong> (five goals, one assist) and midfielder <strong>Braden Widener</strong> (four goals, ten assists) to the lineup, along with fullback <strong>Cameron Kiastapour</strong> (five assists). “All of them will have to step up of course, but we lost 9-10 starters. I’m as interested as everyone else in seeing how this team comes together. It’s another year where we are handing out name tags with all the new faces!”</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G2922-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22542"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">BG&#8217;s Braden Widener</figcaption></figure>



<p><strong>Watch Out For</strong>&nbsp;</p>



<p>Senior <strong>Elvin Menjivar</strong>. The midfielder saw action in 20 games a season ago and will be relied upon to provide consistency in the middle of the park for BG.</p>



<p><strong>Circle the Date</strong></p>



<p>August 19 – The Purples travel to Marshall County to play both Marshall County and Trinity on the same day. It will be a unique experience for a team to have two, tough tests on the road in a span of 6-7 hours.</p>



<p></p>



<p><strong>Greenwood Gators</strong></p>



<p>Coach: Eric Bowers, First Season</p>



<p>2022 Record: 11-11-2</p>



<p>14<sup>th</sup> District Runner-Up</p>



<p>4<sup>th</sup> Region Runner-Up</p>



<p>First-year head coach Eric Bowers will make his debut with the Gators on August 8 when the club welcomes 2nd Region champion Madisonville-North Hopkins to The Swamp. However, it won’t be the first time Bowers has donned the green and gold. The 2009 graduate played goalkeeper for the Gators and was the program’s JV coach for the last two seasons. Greenwood hopes the continuity of Bowers as head coach will carry over onto the pitch where the team is coming off its first 4th Region Tournament appearance in ten years.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/EBpic2-1024x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22548" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/EBpic2-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/EBpic2-300x300.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/EBpic2-100x100.jpg 100w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/EBpic2-770x770.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/EBpic2-293x293.jpg 293w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/EBpic2-390x390.jpg 390w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/EBpic2-585x585.jpg 585w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/EBpic2-900x900.jpg 900w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/EBpic2-1400x1400.jpg 1400w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/EBpic2.jpg 1440w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">GHS Coach Eric Bowers</figcaption></figure>



<p>Leading goal scorer <strong>Andy Alfaro </strong>returns to the lineup after scoring 18 goals and notching five assists, as does <strong>Carlos Hercules</strong> and his six goal-eight assist season in 2022. “I have seen dedication, effort, and leadership from Andy and Carlos,” analyzed Bowers. “They – and the rest of my seniors – are taking charge of the team and holding each other accountable. I am seeing them become fantastic young men on and off the pitch.” Seniors <strong>Boe Reh</strong> and <strong>Dylan Goad</strong> return after scoring a combined nine goals and assisting on nine others.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G2666.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22543"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Greenwood&#8217;s Andy Alfaro</figcaption></figure>



<p><strong>Watch Out For</strong>&nbsp;</p>



<p>Juniors <strong>Maung Hsa</strong> and <strong>Johan Cung</strong> who were both noted (among others) by Bowers as expected contributors for the Gators this season. Hsa scored twice and assisted on four goals in ‘22.</p>



<p><strong>Circle the Dates</strong></p>



<p>The entire month of August. The Bowers Era at GHS starts out with a gauntlet of teams, including five region champions from 2022. The other two games? Just road games at perennial state stalwarts Warren Central and South Warren. “I made a point to schedule difficult games all around,” noted Bowers. “We have a team that needs to compete, and I want to give them every opportunity for that.” The Gators will certainly be tested come October.</p>



<p><strong>Warren Central Dragons</strong></p>



<p>Coach: Aaron Ray, 11th Season</p>



<p>2022 Record: 14-4-1</p>



<p>From 2017 to 2021, Warren Central won four district championships and two region titles. The Dragons even reached the state semifinals in 2017. Although the program failed to reach the region tournament in 2022, it still went 4-2 in district play and clinched the 1-seed in the 14th.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Dragons return a trio of sophomore stars to the lineup, including forwards <strong>Mzaliwa Noel</strong> and <strong>Peter Thang</strong>. Noel scored twelve goals and assisted on five more, while Thang scored nine and tallied three assists in 2022. Goalkeeper <strong>Almian Sakanovic</strong> also returns after allowing only ten goals over the course of the entire season. Coach Aaron Ray’s club graduated twelve seniors but return many important pieces that project a successful 2023 run.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G0788-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22544" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G0788-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G0788-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G0788-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G0788-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G0788-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G0788-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G0788-1155x770.jpg 1155w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G0788-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G0788-293x195.jpg 293w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G0788-1400x933.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Warren Central&#8217;s Shabani Issa</figcaption></figure>



<p><strong>Watch Out For</strong>&nbsp;</p>



<p>Senior <strong>Byaunda Elombelo</strong>. The attacking player scored seven goals and logged six assists a season ago and will again play a major role for the Dragons.</p>



<p><strong>Circle the Date</strong></p>



<p>August 8 – The Dragons host the region champs (Bowling Green) in the season opener for both teams. The two teams split in ‘22 as WC won at home (3-0) and lost on the road (3-2).</p>



<p><strong>South Warren Spartans</strong></p>



<p>Coach: Tom Alexander, 14th Season</p>



<p>2022 Record: 10-6-2</p>



<p>South Warren’s streak of eight-consecutive trips to the 4th Region Tournament ended last season, but the Spartans believe with the talent they are returning, a new streak can begin. Coach Tom Alexander returns for a fourteenth season and is still the only coach in program history. We always set our expectations high,” said Alexander. “Our goals every year are to get out of the district, win the region, and see how far we can get in the state tournament.&nbsp; I have been very fortunate to have a job teaching and coaching at South Warren. South is such a special place for me.” It’s hard to argue with the success the program has experienced under Alexander. Four region championships, two district titles, and a berth in the state finals in 2020.</p>



<p>Experience plays a major role in high school soccer, especially at the highest level. The Spartans will have ten seniors on their 2023 roster, including midfielder <strong>Leo Kogetsu</strong> and defender <strong>Logan Palmquist</strong> who both featured in the ‘20 state finals. “Leo Kogetsu will lead our attack this year,” Alexander said. “He knows what the expectations are for him and he embraces any challenge we have for him.” Palmquist will lead a backline with <strong>Jackson Lewis </strong>and <strong>Blake Bere</strong>. “These three have lots of experience and have been excellent working with our younger players.”</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G2281-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22546" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G2281-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G2281-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G2281-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G2281-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G2281-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G2281-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G2281-1155x770.jpg 1155w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G2281-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G2281-293x195.jpg 293w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BL2G2281-1400x933.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">South&#8217;s Logan Palmquist</figcaption></figure>



<p>South replaces goalkeeper Aiden Peerce<strong> </strong>but has junior <strong>Braxton McCoy</strong> in line to hopefully fill his shoes. McCoy played sporadically a season ago and “did great when he was in,” Alexander added. “He will be our starter this year and he has really worked hard to get to the position he is in now.”</p>



<p><strong>Watch Out For</strong>&nbsp;</p>



<p>Senior midfielder <strong>Parker Jhamb</strong>. Jhamb impressed coaches in the preseason and is expected to play a major role in the middle of the park for the Spartans in ‘23.</p>



<p><strong>Circle the Date</strong></p>



<p>September 2 – South Warren will participate in the <em>Purples Classic</em><strong><em> </em></strong>at Bowling Green, doing battle with Marshall County at 11:00 AM and state runner-up St. Xavier at 5:00 PM. It will be these kinds of tests that prepare the Spartans for the intense matchups against District 14 competition.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/opportunities-await/">Opportunities Await</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
					<wfw:commentRss>https://stfanclub.com/opportunities-await/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
			<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>Hungry for More</title>
		<link>https://stfanclub.com/hungry-for-more/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=hungry-for-more</link>
					<comments>https://stfanclub.com/hungry-for-more/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Perry Swack]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 29 Jul 2023 14:05:27 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Boys Soccer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[15th District]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Allen County-Scottsville Patriots]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Barren County Trojans]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Glasgow Scotties]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Warren East Raiders]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://stfanclub.com/?p=22531</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>After winning its first district championship in school history, Warren East hopes to build on its strong 2022 campaign By Perry Swack 15th District Boys Preview Warren East Raiders 2022 Record: 12-5 Won 15th District&#160; Coach: Luis Cano, third season Having won the school’s first district championship in boys’ soccer, the Warren East Raiders enter 2023 hungry for more. Coach Luis Cano’s squad are expected to return some of its strongest contributors from 2022, including leading scorer Misael Giron. The [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/hungry-for-more/">Hungry for More</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p><em>After winning its first district championship in school history, Warren East hopes to build on its strong 2022 campaign</em></p>



<p>By Perry Swack</p>



<p><strong>15</strong><strong><sup>th</sup></strong><strong> District Boys Preview</strong></p>



<p><strong>Warren East Raiders</strong></p>



<p>2022 Record: 12-5</p>



<p>Won 15<sup>th</sup> District&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>Coach:</strong> Luis Cano, third season<br></p>



<p>Having won the school’s first district championship in boys’ soccer, the Warren East Raiders enter 2023 hungry for more. Coach Luis Cano’s squad are expected to return some of its strongest contributors from 2022, including leading scorer <strong>Misael Giron</strong>. The incoming senior scored 33 goals and tallied 15 assists as a junior. Goalkeeper <strong>Stevan Rodriguez </strong>helped anchor a stout defense as the Raiders posted seven shutouts on the season. After losing only four seniors from the ‘22 roster, Warren East will be primed to make more noise across the 15th District and 4th Region.</p>



<p><strong>Watch Out For</strong>&nbsp;</p>



<p>Senior <strong>David Alfaro</strong>. As a junior, Alfaro scored six times and assisted on four other goals as the Raiders had a banner season on the pitch.</p>



<p><strong>Circle the Date</strong></p>



<p>September 21 – Warren East travels to Greenwood, who eliminated the Raiders from the 4th Region Tournament in 2022.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized is-style-rounded"><img decoding="async" src="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/WEHS-Soccer-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22532" width="800"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Picture provided by Warren East High School</figcaption></figure>



<p></p>



<p><strong>Glasgow Scotties</strong></p>



<p>2022 Record: 6-14</p>



<p>15<sup>th</sup> District Runner-Up</p>



<p><strong>Coaches: </strong>Ken and Laura Mahung, 10th Season</p>



<p>Glasgow may have seen its run of eight-consecutive district titles come to an end in 2022; however, the Scotties qualified for an eleventh-straight 4th Region Tournament. Improvement was the name of the game for coaches Ken and Laura Mahung. GHS went 0-4 against Barren County and Warren East in the regular season but defeated Barren in the district tournament and nearly toppled East before falling in penalties. Senior<strong> Nick Bower</strong> returns to the lineup after scoring six goals and assisting on six more a season ago. Goalkeeper <strong>Richard Crowe</strong> will be expected to get the nod in goal, after making eight saves in a 2-0 loss to Franklin-Simpson in the 4th Region Tournament.</p>



<p><strong>Watch Out For</strong>&nbsp;</p>



<p>Junior <strong>Darwin Hernandez</strong> who tallied five assists a season ago.<strong> Jared Malagon</strong> scored four goals as a freshman and will play a larger role in ‘23.</p>



<p><strong>Circle the Date</strong></p>



<p>August 17 — Glasgow travels to Warren East for a rematch of last season’s district championship game</p>



<p><strong>Barren County Trojans</strong></p>



<p>2022 Record: 12-8</p>



<p><strong>Coach: </strong>Bobbie Nyekan, 11th Season (1st since 2014)</p>



<p>After an eight-season tenure for coach Joe Mercer, former head man <strong>Bobbie Nyekan </strong>(2005-14) returns to the Barren County dugout. In his first run with the program, the Trojans went to five-straight 4th Region Tournaments and won two district titles in 2012 and 2013. The task will be tall as Barren County graduated one of its most prolific scorers in program history, Micah Wilson, who bagged 40 goals in 2022. <strong>Alan Edberg </strong>is the team’s top returning scorer after scoring seven goals and handing out six assists a season ago. Nyekan will be looking for players to fill in the gaps left by a talented senior class</p>



<p><strong>Watch Out For</strong>&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Trojans’ experienced back line which featured <strong>Colton Boone, John Edberg, Osmar Casas, </strong>and <strong>Logan Gerber </strong>a season ago. The quartet combined to play in nearly every game and all return for the ‘23 campaign.</p>



<p><strong>Circle the Date</strong></p>



<p>August 24 – The Trojans travel to Warren East for an early-season district showdown that will show both teams exactly where they stand two weeks into the 2023 season.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>Allen County-Scottsville Patriots</strong></p>



<p>2022 Record: 4-16</p>



<p><strong>Coach: </strong>Josue Ramirez, 4th Season</p>



<p>There is much room for optimism among the Allen County-Scottsville boys’ soccer program as the team has improved its win totals in each of its first three seasons as a program. After debuting in 2020 with zero wins, the Patriots won once in 2021, and four times in 2022. Although the program’s all-time leading scorer Aaron Shain (29 goals) has graduated, coach Josue Ramirez returns talent that he hopes will allow his team to continue its improvement. <strong>Blade Workman </strong>will feature in the ACS lineup after scoring 12 goals and assisting on six more in 2022. Goalkeeper <strong>Ashtyn Ballinger</strong> also returns after making an astounding 268 saves a season ago.</p>



<p><strong>Watch Out For</strong>&nbsp;</p>



<p>Junior <strong>Sammy Jines</strong>. Jines scored four goals in 2022, while leading the team with eight assists. His connection with Workman and others will be key for success on the pitch in 2023.</p>



<p><strong>Circle the Date</strong></p>



<p>August 10 – Allen County-Scottsville opens the season with Logan County in the Kentucky 2A Tournament. The two clubs split in 2022 and this early-season matchup is a major opportunity for the Patriots to play well as the ‘23 season kicks off.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/hungry-for-more/">Hungry for More</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
					<wfw:commentRss>https://stfanclub.com/hungry-for-more/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
			<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>A New Champion will be Crowned</title>
		<link>https://stfanclub.com/a-new-champion-will-be-crowned/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=a-new-champion-will-be-crowned</link>
					<comments>https://stfanclub.com/a-new-champion-will-be-crowned/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Perry Swack]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 11 Oct 2022 15:13:15 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Boys Soccer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bowling Green Purples]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Franklin-Simpson wildcats]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Greenwood Gators]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Todd County Central Rebels]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://stfanclub.com/?p=21908</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Bowling Green and Greenwood look to return to the winner’s circle for the first time since 2015 By Perry Swack From 2000-2015 Bowling Green and Greenwood won sixteen out of sixteen 4th Region boys’ soccer titles. Bowling Green won ten championships (most recently a four-peat from 2012-15), while Greenwood took home six trophies (with a four-peat from 2008-11 as well). However, the last six seasons have seen neither program claim what used to be theirs without question. South Warren won [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/a-new-champion-will-be-crowned/">&lt;strong&gt;A New Champion will be Crowned&lt;/strong&gt;</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p><em>Bowling Green and Greenwood look to return to the winner’s circle for the first time since 2015</em></p>



<p>By Perry Swack</p>



<p>From 2000-2015 Bowling Green and Greenwood won sixteen out of sixteen 4<sup>th</sup> Region boys’ soccer titles. Bowling Green won ten championships (most recently a four-peat from 2012-15), while Greenwood took home six trophies (with a four-peat from 2008-11 as well). However, the last six seasons have seen neither program claim what used to be theirs without question. South Warren won represented the 4th Region in the state tournament in 2016, 2018, 2020, and 2021, while Warren Central were region champions in 2017 and 2019.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Things have been different this season. While South Warren and Warren Central put together outstanding seasons on the pitch, the Purples and Gators clipped their crosstown rivals in the district tournament. Now only four teams remain with a chance to hold the trophy Thursday night at Warren Central.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The second semifinal on Wednesday night (7:30pm) will see the 14<sup>th</sup> District runner-up Greenwood face off with the 13<sup>th</sup> District runner-up Todd County Central. Greenwood is in its first region tournament since 2013 and will be looking to continue its hot streak against the Rebels. Heading into the event, the Gators were led by junior <strong>Andy Alfaro’s</strong> 15 goals, while he and fellow junior <strong>Carlos Hercules</strong> each had assisted on five goals. Greenwood’s 10-10-2 record doesn’t jump out on the page; however, coach <strong>Luis Llontop’s</strong> club has been in nearly every game this season, losing seven games by a single goal. With ten games decided by a single goal, the Gators will be able to draw upon their experience in tight games if a game comes down to the wire in the region tournament.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2022/10/BL2G2656JPG.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-21910" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/BL2G2656JPG.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/BL2G2656JPG-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/BL2G2656JPG-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/BL2G2656JPG-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/BL2G2656JPG-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/BL2G2656JPG-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption>Greenwood&#8217;s Imran Karamova</figcaption></figure>



<p>Greenwood’s opponent, Todd County Central, is also appearing in its first region tournament since 2013. Fourth-year coach <strong>Mike Smith </strong>has the Rebels atop nearly every defensive category in the state. The Elkton club has allowed the fewest goals in the state at 11 and senior goalkeeper <strong>Jonah Rager</strong> ranks third statewide with 13 complete game shutouts. Junior defender <strong>Zack Robinson </strong>leads the team with 17 goals, while midfielders <strong>Chris Salazar</strong> and <strong>Horacio Herrera</strong> have each tallied 11 and 10 assists respectively. The trio will be called upon to come through for the Rebels on Wednesday evening. </p>



<p>Interestingly enough, these two teams met back in the 2013 4<sup>th</sup> Region semifinals as Greenwood won 6-0 behind two goals from Edin Hasanovic and a clean sheet from keeper Mitch O’Kelly.</p>



<p>The first semifinal at 5:30pm pits 13<sup>th</sup> District champion Franklin-Simpson (16-6-1) with 14<sup>th</sup> District champion Bowling Green (15-2). The Wildcats are the highest scoring team in the 4<sup>th</sup> Region with 97 goals on the year and have allowed the second-fewest goals in the entire state per game (0.7). Freshman midfielder <strong>Oscar Lopez</strong> leads the team with 25 goals on the year, while sophomore <strong>Griff Banton</strong> has netted 23 on the season. Senior defender <strong>Gabe Jones</strong> has scored 17 goals and leads the team with 20 assists. Senior goalkeeper <strong>Connor Vincent</strong> leads the state with 15 complete game shutouts and will be called upon in a big way on Wednesday evening against the Purples. In a 6-1 loss to Bowling Green in late September, Vincent made ten saves.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2022/10/BL2G2683JPG.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-21911" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/BL2G2683JPG.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/BL2G2683JPG-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/BL2G2683JPG-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/BL2G2683JPG-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/BL2G2683JPG-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/BL2G2683JPG-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>



<p>The Purples are in fine form, winners of ten matches in a row. Senior striker <strong>Yaredi Yaredi</strong> leads the team with 12 goals, while fellow senior and midfielder <strong>Shukurani Makiwa</strong> has scored ten goals and leads the team with seven assists. Of Bowling Green’s 65 goals this season, only 15 have been unassisted. Five players have at least five assists, led by Makiwa’s seven and sophomore <strong>Braden Widener’s</strong> six. As noted above, the Purples and Wildcats met on September 29 and BG won 6-1 behind <strong>Tomas Gonzaga’s</strong> two goals and Widener’s two assists.&nbsp;</p>



<p>One of the most accomplished coaches in Kentucky state high school soccer history, <strong>Craig Widener</strong> will look to win his eighth region tournament in thirteen tries. His first stint at Bowling Green started in 2005. His second in 2021. What happened in 2006? The Purples won the state title. Might we be in store for another second season state championship? Only time will tell.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/a-new-champion-will-be-crowned/">&lt;strong&gt;A New Champion will be Crowned&lt;/strong&gt;</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
					<wfw:commentRss>https://stfanclub.com/a-new-champion-will-be-crowned/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
			<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>Region 4-Peat</title>
		<link>https://stfanclub.com/region-4-peat/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=region-4-peat</link>
					<comments>https://stfanclub.com/region-4-peat/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chuck Feist]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 19 Oct 2021 05:29:53 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Boys Soccer]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://stfanclub.com/?p=21376</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The Elizabethtown Panthers came into the 2021 season with only history to beat. Last year, they became the first boys team in the 5th Region to win three straight Region Championships and once again they did it with ease. However No team had ever done it FOUR Straight years in the 5th. It wasn’t like they hadn’t tried. Going back through history (more recent history), Bethlehem 2005-2006, John Hardin 2007-2008, Central Hardin (2013-2014) and North Hardin (2015-2016) had all won [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/region-4-peat/">Region 4-Peat</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="667" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6537-2-1024x667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-21377" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6537-2-1024x667.jpg 1024w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6537-2-300x195.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6537-2-770x501.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6537-2-1536x1000.jpg 1536w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6537-2-293x191.jpg 293w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6537-2-1400x911.jpg 1400w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6537-2.jpg 1553w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>The Elizabethtown Panthers came into the 2021 season with only history to beat. Last year, they became the first boys team in the 5<sup>th</sup> Region to win three straight Region Championships and once again they did it with ease. However No team had ever done it FOUR Straight years in the 5<sup>th</sup>.</p>



<p>It wasn’t like they hadn’t tried.</p>



<p>Going back through history (more recent history), Bethlehem 2005-2006, John Hardin 2007-2008, Central Hardin (2013-2014) and North Hardin (2015-2016) had all won it twice in succession, but getting that third year just didn’t happen and the reasons were many, but perhaps the biggest was the loss of key senior personnel.</p>



<p>Panther head coach Corey Yates understood this and knew that the team he had returning was going to be competitive because of the great young talent coming up, but would the loss of ten seniors (mostly key starters) play a huge role in their success this season?</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="877" height="1024" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6625-2-877x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-21379" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6625-2-877x1024.jpg 877w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6625-2-257x300.jpg 257w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6625-2-770x899.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6625-2-293x342.jpg 293w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6625-2.jpg 1244w" sizes="(max-width: 877px) 100vw, 877px" /></figure>



<p>It didn’t seem to matter much early on as Elizabethtown ran through their first five opponents outscoring them 32-1. Then the first ripple in the regular season was a first place showdown with the other team which had an unbeaten record in the District as well against North Hardin at home. In a tough and physical defensive struggle, the Trojans came away with a 2-1 win in a shoot-out. It was the first District loss for Yates’ team since 2018 and they followed that up with a 3-0 loss against defending state champions St. X.</p>



<p>There was certainly no reason to feel insult to losing to St. Xavier, but the Trojan loss may have played a key role in the Panthers fortunes for the rest of the season as it gave the team and their coach a moment to regroup and refocus.</p>



<p>Regardless of the reasons, after a loss to Marshall County on September 4<sup>th</sup> at the Purples Classic, Elizabethtown would not lose again.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="711" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6650-2-1024x711.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-21380" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6650-2-1024x711.jpg 1024w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6650-2-300x208.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6650-2-770x534.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6650-2-293x203.jpg 293w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6650-2-1400x972.jpg 1400w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6650-2.jpg 1530w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Seven straight wins set up a big showdown against Central Hardin on the road and this time the Bruins were ready. A furious defensive struggle nearly ended as Central Hardin put the first goal on the board with a shot by Weston Bowman with a little less than a minute remaining. It looked like the Panthers were looking at their first loss in several weeks that’s when the Panthers refused to die and tied things up on an Eli Been goal. After two straight scoreless extra innings led to a shoot out situation and Elizabethtown once again showed that they had learned from their previous failures by outshooting the Bruins 3-0. The celebration lasted quite a while, but up next was a first place showdown with the North Hardin Trojans.</p>



<p>Once again, the Panthers responded to the situation and the defense threw a shutout against the stingy Trojans scorers. Goalkeeper Jackson Holt, who was the defensive star in the Central Hardin shootout only had to make three saves and Coach Yates told his team that it was one of the best defensive efforts of the year and behind two goals by Cole Varela and one by Kobe Ryan Elizabethtown pulled away with a 3-0 win.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="899" height="1024" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6554-2-899x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-21381" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6554-2-899x1024.jpg 899w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6554-2-263x300.jpg 263w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6554-2-770x877.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6554-2-1348x1536.jpg 1348w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6554-2-293x334.jpg 293w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6554-2-1400x1595.jpg 1400w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6554-2.jpg 1407w" sizes="(max-width: 899px) 100vw, 899px" /></figure>



<p>After that, the District was an exercise for the Panthers with two 5-1 wins over John Hardin in the Semi-Finals and then Central Hardin in the District Championship. In the playoffs, Dylan Barnes continued emergence as a scoring star with 5-of the team’s ten goals. Between Barnes (29-goals) and Varela (30), the Panthers had a great One-Two punch as the team would eventually finish with 115-goals coming into the Region Tournament.</p>



<p>The Defense, which could have been a question mark turned in another great season allowing just 22-goals total coming into the 5<sup>th</sup> Region Tournament.</p>



<p>First order of business was game one against Bethlehem at North Hardin. The Eagles had put together a great season and a lighting issue forced a delay of their contest to be played the following day. When action did resume, the Panthers took a close game and finally pulled away on Varela’s two goals and Dylan Barnes two goals. The highlight was Barnes corner shot which was low and away and somehow found it’s way into the goal. The 4-1 win was the team’s 19<sup>th</sup> as the defense was smothering in the second half.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="541" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6633-2-1024x541.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-21383" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6633-2-1024x541.jpg 1024w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6633-2-300x158.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6633-2-770x406.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6633-2-1536x811.jpg 1536w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6633-2-2048x1081.jpg 2048w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6633-2-293x155.jpg 293w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/0E1A6633-2-1400x739.jpg 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>The Panthers were just one win away from achieving the unbelievable 4-Peat and once again they would have to wait for their date with destiny. Heavy rains had left the North Hardin field in a condition not fit for a championship game setting. So, game time was set at 1:00 at Nelson County high school’s turf field and Yates didn’t have to wait long to find out whether his team was ready or not.</p>



<p>Conner Goodman got loose and scored for the Panthers just two minutes into the first half.</p>



<p>Cole Varela followed with his first goal at 33:40 to make it Elizabethtown 2 Thomas Nelson 0.</p>



<p>Jack Robinson made it 3-0 at the 13:55 mark.</p>



<p>Varela got his second in the second half at the 21:35.</p>



<p>Finally Dylan Barnes ended the Panther scoring with his goal at 20:13.</p>



<p>Thomas Nelson got a couple of goals late in the game, but the game and history had already been decided.</p>



<p>The 5-2 win not only gave the Elizabethtown Panthers their fourth straight Region title, but also a bit of vindication for the team and their bright future. There’s no question that the Panthers have been the best team in the 5<sup>th</sup> for the past four (maybe five years), but sometimes the best team doesn’t always win it and you don’t have to tell Corey Yates that.</p>



<p>While Yates will have another trophy to add to their glass display case, both he and the team will now turn their attentions to an even bigger target, which is a KHSAA State Title and that all begins with a home date against Henderson County this Tuesday.</p>



<p></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/region-4-peat/">Region 4-Peat</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
					<wfw:commentRss>https://stfanclub.com/region-4-peat/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
			<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>Unchartered Territory / South Warren competes in state semifinals for first time in school history</title>
		<link>https://stfanclub.com/khsaa-state-boys-soccer/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=khsaa-state-boys-soccer</link>
					<comments>https://stfanclub.com/khsaa-state-boys-soccer/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[sportingtimes]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2020 16:51:59 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Boys Soccer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South Warren]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South Warren High]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South Warren Spartans]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://stfanclub.com/?p=19461</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>#8 Ryle (17-0) vs. #5 South Warren (15-1-1) October 29, 2020 – 3:00pm – Henry Clay High School By Perry Swack &#8211; Sporting Times Reporter South Warren continued its impressive season the pitch, upending 2019 state finalist Daviess County in this year’s state quarterfinals. With the win, the Spartans were rewarded with the school’s first ever semifinal appearance. The club will take on undefeated Ryle, the 9th Region champions. The Raiders, led by coach Stephen Collins, have allowed only four [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/khsaa-state-boys-soccer/">Unchartered Territory / South Warren competes in state semifinals for first time in school history</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p><strong>#8 Ryle (17-0) vs. #5 South Warren (15-1-1)</strong></p>



<p>October 29, 2020 – 3:00pm – Henry Clay High School</p>



<p>By Perry Swack &#8211; Sporting Times Reporter</p>



<p>South Warren continued its impressive season the pitch, upending 2019 state finalist Daviess County in this year’s state quarterfinals. With the win, the Spartans were rewarded with the school’s first ever semifinal appearance. The club will take on undefeated Ryle, the 9<sup>th</sup> Region champions. The Raiders, led by coach Stephen Collins, have allowed only four goals all season. However, the Spartans – led by coach Tom Alexander – appear to be the favorites. According to the state Maher Rankings, South is ranked #5 and Ryle #8. Utilizing the KHSAA RPI, the Spartans are #2 and Ryle checks in at #12. Obviously, rankings mean very little once the ball is kicked off, and we should be in for an outstanding match Thursday afternoon.</p>



<p><strong>First-Ever Meeting between South Warren &amp; Ryle</strong><strong></strong></p>



<p><strong><u>Players to Watch</u></strong></p>



<p>In talking about South Warren, you have to start with senior <strong>Eldin Velic</strong>. The forward has been on an absolute tear in the postseason, scoring 13 goals between 14<sup>th</sup> District, 4<sup>th</sup> Region, and state tournament play. He has been unbelievable, with a nose for the goal like few others. After his hattrick to clinch the 4<sup>th</sup> Region title, Velic scored a brace against Daviess County in South’s state quarterfinal match. <strong>Anthony Cano </strong>and <strong>Luie Kogetsu</strong> help pace the midfield, providing both goals and assists. The duo has combined for 21 assists on the season, including 11 this postseason. The Spartan defense has only conceded eight goals all season and never more than one in a single match. Stalwarts on the backline like <strong>Jaxon Hope</strong> and <strong>David Mung</strong> will be critical in keeping the Raiders out of the net. Their ability to connect on set pieces – including corner kicks – may decide the match.</p>



<p>The Ryle Raiders bring an unblemished record into the match and are balanced in the attack. Senior <strong>Lance Paul</strong> is tied for the team lead with 13 goals and leads the club with 12 assists. Junior <strong>Conner Race</strong> has also tallied 13 goals on the season. The Raiders are ferocious on defense, giving up a state-best 4 goals all season. The club has 13 shutouts in 17 games. Senior <strong>Noah Moeller </strong>anchors the defense and was named the MVP of the 9<sup>th</sup> Region Tournament. <strong>Colsen Neace </strong>is also a standout on the backline, being named to the All-Region Tournament Team as well.</p>



<p><strong><u>Preview and Prediction</u></strong></p>



<p>Ryle may be undefeated but the metrics like the Spartans. It’s hard to argue with the metrics. South has played a slightly tougher schedule, earning impressive wins over Trinity, Daviess County, McCracken County, Central Hardin, and beating Warren Central twice. Coach Alexander’s club is a top ten team in scoring (4.6 goals per game) and top two in defense (0.5 goals allowed per game).</p>



<p>Ryle will be no pushover though, returning to the state semifinals for the first time since 2017 when they lost a heartbreaker in double overtime to Daviess County. The 17 seniors on the team this year were freshmen that season. This is the program’s first state tournament appearance since that season.</p>



<p>My prediction is that we see a tight, defensive showdown between the Spartans and the Raiders. It only seems fitting that the Spartans’ first goal would come from Eldin Velic, who will continue his scoring tear against Ryle. The 1-0 lead at half will give South the momentum it needs to stay on the offensive in the second half. <strong>Alex Ortiz </strong>will find Velic for what appears to be a second goal early in the second half, but a clearance by Moeller will keep the lead at 1-0. The balanced attack of Ryle will seek for the equalizer, but as the game wanes into the final minutes it will look like it’s nowhere to be found. A quick counterattack by the Spartans – led by Anthony Cano – will give South a golden opportunity to double its lead. However, a questionable offsides call will bring the ball back. Late in the match, Lance Paul and Conner Race will link up for a dangerous chance. But a leaping save by <strong>Tayshaun Jones</strong> will be the final nail in the coffin.</p>



<p><strong>South Warren 1,</strong> <strong>Ryle 0</strong></p>



<p>The winner of this game will advance to the state championship game scheduled for Saturday, October 31 at 6:30pm CST at Henry Clay High School. The winner will face either St. Xavier or Corbin.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/khsaa-state-boys-soccer/">Unchartered Territory / South Warren competes in state semifinals for first time in school history</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
					<wfw:commentRss>https://stfanclub.com/khsaa-state-boys-soccer/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
			<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>A New Day in the 4th Region Boys Soccer</title>
		<link>https://stfanclub.com/boys-soccer-4th-region/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=boys-soccer-4th-region</link>
					<comments>https://stfanclub.com/boys-soccer-4th-region/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[sportingtimes]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 22 Oct 2020 17:59:49 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Boys Soccer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South Warren High School]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South Warren Spartans]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Warren Central Dragons]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Warren County Schools]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://stfanclub.com/?p=19416</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Warren Central and South Warren do battle on the pitch with the 4th Region title on the line Warren Central (9-3-1) vs. South Warren (12-1-1) October 22, 2020 – 6:00pm – Greenwood High School By Perry Swack From 2000 to 2015, either Bowling Green or Greenwood took home the region title and advanced to play in the state tournament. Those two programs seemingly had a stranglehold on area soccer, not only winning the region championship, but also advancing deep into [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/boys-soccer-4th-region/">A New Day in the 4th Region Boys Soccer</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p><em>Warren Central and South Warren do battle on the pitch with the 4<sup>th</sup> Region title on the line</em></p>



<p><strong>Warren Central (9-3-1) vs. South Warren (12-1-1)</strong></p>



<p>October 22, 2020 – 6:00pm – Greenwood High School</p>



<p>By Perry Swack</p>



<p>From 2000 to 2015, either Bowling Green or Greenwood took home the region title and advanced to play in the state tournament. Those two programs seemingly had a stranglehold on area soccer, not only winning the region championship, but also advancing deep into the state tournament. Bowling Green won the state title in 2006 and 2014, while Greenwood advanced to the championship game in 2009.</p>



<p><br>However, starting in 2016, neither program has been able to make it back to the state tournament. South Warren won the 4<sup>th</sup> Region crown in 2016 and 2018, while Warren Central advanced to the state tournament in 2017 and 2019. 2020 will provide these two upstart programs the opportunity to further cement themselves as the class of the region. Calling these teams “upstarts” is actually disrespectful considering where they stand amidst the state’s best soccer programs. South Warren is currently ranked second statewide in the KHSAA RPI ratings. In the Maher Rankings, South Warren checks in at #7 and Warren Central is #11.</p>



<p><strong><u>2020 Meetings</u></strong></p>



<p>September 17 – <strong>South Warren 3</strong> @ Warren Central 1</p>



<p>October 14 – <strong>Warren Central 1</strong> vs. South Warren 0 – 14<sup>th</sup> District Championship</p>



<p>In the regular season meeting, Central scored first when senior Jimmy Estrada found Leonce Ndikumana in the 36<sup>th</sup> minute. However, the Spartans tied the game two minutes later when junior Kiram Mujic netted a pass from Anthomy Cano just before halftime. The game settled briefly in the early parts of the second half before South caught fire. Cano tallied another assist, this time finding Ajlin Alemic for a goal to give the Spartans a 2-1 lead. Three minutes later, Cano found the back of the net himself, this time off of an Eldin Velic pass, giving SWHS a 3-1 lead it would not relinquish.</p>



<p>In the district title game, the Dragons got another early lead – this one in the first minute of the match. Estrada received a pass from midfielder Lah Moo before cutting into the box and scoring past an outstretched Tayshaun Jones in goal. This time the goal would be enough as the Dragon defense hunkered down to keep the attack-minded Spartans at bay. South outshot Central 16-9 on the night, but coach Tom Alexander’s boys were unable to find an equalizer. WC goalkeeper Erick Nzoribala secured eight saves in the win.</p>



<p><strong><u>Players to Watch</u></strong></p>



<p>Warren Central employs an incredibly balanced attack, with five players recording at least five goals in this shortened season. Senior winger <strong>Jimmy Estrada’s</strong> five goals are tied for second on the team, while his eight assists entering the region tournament were tops for his squad. Coach Aaron Ray often mentions his team’s defense as the key to Dragons’ success, so look no further than senior centerback <strong>Kenan Gagulic</strong> to make an impact in tonight’s proceedings.</p>



<p>For the Spartans, senior <strong>Anthony Cano </strong>comes to mind. The midfielder seems to impact the game like few players can, leading the team in assists while also having a nose for the goal. As Cano goes, so does South. Senior forward <strong>Edin Velic</strong> is scintillating in the open field, leading the team in goals scored with 16 entering the region semifinals. He scored a hat-trick in the region quarterfinals.</p>



<p><strong><u>Preview and Prediction</u></strong></p>



<p>Who will win its third region championship in five seasons? Last season, South Warren defeated Warren Central twice in the regular season before losing to the Dragons in both the 14<sup>th</sup> District and 4<sup>th</sup> Region championship games. History could repeat itself, as South won the regular season meeting before losing in the district finale in 2020.</p>



<p>If the game becomes a scoring fest, it certainly favors the Spartans. However, if it becomes a defensive clinic – which I predict it will – it will become a toss-up. South Warren has only allowed seven goals all season, with Warren Central not far behind at 12. If the fullbacks and midfielders of Central – notably Nae Reh and Luis Rodriguez – can build a strong attack for the Dragons, it may give players like Estrada and Eldin Delic the opportunity to strike first. If WC can secure an early goal, it will be well on its way to victory.</p>



<p>I predict that the first half will be played to a 0-0 tie, and around the hour-mark we will still have a scoreless game. Around the 65<sup>th</sup> minute, a corner kick will be played into Central’s Gagulic, and though his header will be blocked by South keeper Tayshaun Jones, the rebound will fall to Estrada who will give Central the lead. The Spartan attack will then increase with pressure, as they look for the equalizer. A free kick with mere seconds remaining will go just wide and the Dragons will repeat as region champions.</p>



<p><strong>Warren Central 1,</strong> South Warren 0</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/boys-soccer-4th-region/">A New Day in the 4th Region Boys Soccer</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
					<wfw:commentRss>https://stfanclub.com/boys-soccer-4th-region/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
			<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>Panthers Repeat as Region Soccer Champs!</title>
		<link>https://stfanclub.com/panthers-repeat-as-region-soccer-champs/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=panthers-repeat-as-region-soccer-champs</link>
					<comments>https://stfanclub.com/panthers-repeat-as-region-soccer-champs/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chuck Feist]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2020 17:31:56 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Boys Soccer]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://stfanclub.com/?p=18652</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>   Elizabethtown may have won the 5th Region Championship for the second straight season in Boys soccer, but head coach Corey Yates might tell you that it probably wasn’t easy. The 5-1 score over Taylor County may have seemed like it was a breeze as the Panthers got early goals from junior Andrew Ballard and freshman Cole Varela, then added another just before the half by senior Luis Gomez to make it 3-0 against a very talented Cardinal team. Elizabethtown [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/panthers-repeat-as-region-soccer-champs/">Panthers Repeat as Region Soccer Champs!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>  </p>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery columns-1 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex"><ul class="blocks-gallery-grid"><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="368" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2020/04/Photo-by-Amy-Inman-1-1024x368.jpg" alt="" data-id="18653" data-full-url="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2020/04/Photo-by-Amy-Inman-1.jpg" data-link="https://stfanclub.com?attachment_id=18653" class="wp-image-18653" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Photo-by-Amy-Inman-1-1024x368.jpg 1024w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Photo-by-Amy-Inman-1-300x108.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Photo-by-Amy-Inman-1-770x276.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Photo-by-Amy-Inman-1-293x105.jpg 293w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Photo-by-Amy-Inman-1.jpg 1362w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></li></ul><figcaption class="blocks-gallery-caption">Photo by Amy Inman<br></figcaption></figure>



<p>Elizabethtown may have won the 5<sup>th</sup> Region Championship for the second straight season in Boys soccer, but head coach Corey Yates might tell you that it probably wasn’t easy. The 5-1 score over Taylor County may have seemed like it was a breeze as the Panthers got early goals from junior Andrew Ballard and freshman Cole Varela, then added another just before the half by senior Luis Gomez to make it 3-0 against a very talented Cardinal team. Elizabethtown added two more in the second half and the Panther defense led by Goalkeeper Brandon Parsons may have played their best game defensively according to Yates afterwards that they had all season against a very dangerous Taylor County team. Both Ryan Maynard (47-goals) and David Silva (34-goals) were held in check by the Elizabethtown backline and the Cardinals avoided a shutout with 2:38 left when Maynard scored just inside the penalty box.</p>



<p>For Taylor County, who finally saw success for the first time in the 5<sup>th</sup> Region since moving from the 15<sup>th</sup> Region saw their season come to an end. It wasn’t an easy road for first year coach Derek Bell either. After breezing through the regular season and District Tournament, they saw their first serious threat in the second round of the Region Tournament against North Hardin, but survived in a dicey shootout to win.</p>



<p>On the otherhand, the road to their second straight Region Tournament trophy hoist has been anything but easy. Since Yates took over the the job, the Panthers struggled to reach the Region Tournament losing two straight 1-0 semi-final District matches against North Hardin in 2015 and 2016, then after running the table in the District, there was the shootout loss the Central Hardin the following year which was preceeded by a flood that made the game look like an “Irwin Allen Disaster Movie.” The following year, despite losing his top scorer from a year ago, were able to overcome two losses to Central Hardin (one in the district final) to finally win in the Region Championship. This season, with the loss of six seniors, have found their balance. True, they lost six games to top twenty competition, but Yates believes that if they hadn’t lost Ty Been to a season endind injury early their record would have been better.</p>



<p>The core of the Panthers attack is still young with Ballard (junior) and Cole Varela (freshman) still in their primes and the Panthers will have plenty of youth ready for the next several seasons as district rivals tend to catch on.</p>



<p>With a looming Tuesday Night road game coming up against Oldham County, the question will now be “Just How Good Can this Panther Team Get?” Continued success is not easy on the Boys soccer universe especially in the 5<sup>th</sup> Region.</p>



<p>Since 2000, no team has won three straight 5<sup>th</sup> Region Championships and if history is a cruel reminder of the mortality and parity in the boys soccer world this is the rule. Corey Yates has proved you can win over a period of time with different players and every changing lineups and his ability to keep his team grounded and hungry are proof of it.</p>



<p>I’m sure Yates will let his team enjoy this trophy for a little while, but just long enough before he reminds them how hard it was to get there in the first place and how close they nearly came after losing a 3-0 lead to Bardstown in the Semi-finals to finally pulling out an OT win on Ballard’s fourth goal to possibly going home before Thursday night.</p>



<p>Yates once told me it’s not always easy being the bad guy to your team because all it takes is one missed assignment to completely change the outcome of a final score. The former Elizabethtown soccer star has probably seen it all and although he knew they were always good enough to be there, getting there and staying are two totally different things.</p>



<p>At least for Yates and the Panthers soccer team, there will be a tomorrow.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/panthers-repeat-as-region-soccer-champs/">Panthers Repeat as Region Soccer Champs!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
					<wfw:commentRss>https://stfanclub.com/panthers-repeat-as-region-soccer-champs/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
			<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>North Hardin freshman Phil Murrell</title>
		<link>https://stfanclub.com/north-hardin-freshman-phil-murrell/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=north-hardin-freshman-phil-murrell</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[sportingtimes]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Dec 2019 07:34:48 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Boys Soccer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Videos]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Central Hardin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Hardin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Phil Murrell]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Soccer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Video]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://stfanclub.com/?p=17705</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>North Hardin freshman Phil Murrell talks after a shootout! Phill hits the 5th good shot during a shootout as the trojans eliminated central hardin in the 17th district soccer tournament.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/north-hardin-freshman-phil-murrell/">North Hardin freshman Phil Murrell</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>North Hardin freshman Phil Murrell talks after a shootout! Phill hits the 5th good shot during a shootout as the trojans eliminated central hardin in the 17th district soccer tournament.</p>



<p></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/north-hardin-freshman-phil-murrell/">North Hardin freshman Phil Murrell</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			</item>
	</channel>
</rss>