Sequim going on the offensive

Sequim Gazette staff

Led by a dominating defense, Sequim slugged it out with Olympic League powerhouses North Kitsap and Kingston last season and came away with a 13-3 league record and berth in the West Central District playoffs.

But graduation took its toll on a stout backfield that gave up just 1.3 goals per game and recorded six shutouts — forcing Sequim coach Dave Brasher and company to replace three all-league first team defenders (Hector Baylon, Bailey Collins and Lijah Sanford).

Fortunately for the Wolves, much of their offense is back on the pitch. That lineup includes junior forward Thomas Winfield, who led Sequim with 11 goals and added four assists. Also back in the mix is senior midfielder Eli Berg (two goals, 11 assists), junior forward Cameron Chase (nine goals, three assists), senior Adrian Espinoza and sophomore goalkeeper Austin Wagner.

Brascher said captains Berg and Espinoza are leaders on the field.

“They control the pace pretty well,” he said.

New to the squad is freshman Liam Harris, whom Brasher calls a “player to watch.”

Brasher said he likes what he sees early on from his new lineup on defense: Patrick McCrorie, Christian Benson, Will Bittner and Jerry Bryan.

“They’ve been solid,” Brasher said.

Spring Sports Preview: SHS boys soccer

2014 record in league, overall: 13-3-0, third place; 14-5 overall; 1-2 in postseason/0-1 at districts

Head coach: Dave Brasher (19th year)

Returning players: Christian Benson, Eli Berg, Will Bittner, Jerry Bryan, Cameron Chase, Lane Danielson, Adrian Espinoza, Kyle Harrison, Hayden James, Patrick McCrorie, Christian Salas, Austin Wagner, Thomas Winfield

New players: Blake Erike, Jonathan Flores, Joshua Gonzalez, William Harris, Evan James, Marcos Lopez, Jakob McElhose, Konnor Parrish, Josiah Urquia

Key league competition: Kingston, North Kitsap, Klahowya, Port Angeles