The El Molino boys soccer team has paid its dues in the last few seasons, struggling to win games on a competitive Sonoma County League circuit.
The Lions enter the final campaign before league realignment looking to be much improved following a one-win season last year, returning a solid group of veterans to the 2017-18 squad.
Head coach Dave Rosales is back to lead a hungry varsity group, optimistic for the challenges that lie ahead.
“We hope to be a bit more competitive with the larger schools in our league, and to ‘hold our own,’ as the say,” Rosales said. “We have many multi-sport athletes and the guys are working well together to control the ball in the attacking third of the field, and to rely on each other when things become difficult.”
Key varsity returnees for the Lions include seniors Patrick Palmer and Ryan Pamatmat anchoring the defensive back line, as well as senior midfielder Kristian Walker. Returning junior starters are Sergio Sanchez, Logan Myers and Finn Smith. Also retuning are Jahmye Daly and Jack Grassl as wingbacks.
Bolstering the team will be promising freshman defender Jacob Cibrian, who adds both confidence and experience from playing club ball with Santa Rosa United.
Lions forge tie in opener
The Lions kicked off the pre-league season on Nov. 29 in a home match with Ukiah, playing the Wildcats on even terms before settling for a scoreless tie.
“The boys played very well with several chances to score by Logan Myers,” Rosales reported. ”Kristian Walker had a beatific free kick from 25 yards out that came inches from going in the back of the net. Defensively, Sergio Sanchez had a strong game. I’m really proud of the boys for a strong work rate and their ability to stay focused on the task of containing a strong visiting team,” he added.
The Lions will resume pre-season action at home on Saturday, Dec. 16 in a 1 p.m. varsity tilt with Berean Christian.
