Steers soccer opens season with road loss

The Graham Steers soccer team opened its new season with a 2-1 loss Tuesday, Dec. 13 at Granbury High School. Despite the loss and following the team’s scrimmages last week, there is a lot of optimism surrounding the team as it begins its new season.

The Pirates opened the match by challenging the Steers’ defense, which is led by team captain and last year’s district defensive MVP Christian Coyac. Owen Gage returned as the team’s goalkeeper this year and provided the Steers “solid goaltending” according to coach Tim Wankowicz.

In the later stages of the half, the Steers created opportunities in the offensive third through their counter-attack. Neither side was able to find a goal and went into halftime tied 0-0.

“We wore them down and they realized they were in for a fight when we were able to make several counters and get some serious offensive opportunities,” Wankowicz said. “Their goalkeeper made a spectacular save against Jesus Lucio late in the first half on a set piece outside the box. Jesus blasted a ball from just outside the 18-yard box around the wall to the lower post that would have found its mark if it wasn’t for that save.”

For the full story, see the Saturday, Dec. 17 edition of The Graham Leader.