By Josh Young
The Lehman Lobo boys soccer team put their late-season winning streak on the line as the visiting Austin High Maroons attempted to bolster their playoff hopes with a win on Friday night at Lobo Field.
The Maroons were on a streak of their own and also had the confidence of a 6-2 win in the first meeting against the Lobos.
Unpredictably, an Austin High goal in the first 30 seconds of match was the difference as Lehman fell 1-0. Austin scored its goal following a defensive lapse in the center of the Lobos’ defense.
The Lobos fought hard through the remaining 79 minutes to change the outcome but Austin High limited the scoring chances. As a result, Lehman could not get a clean shot on goal throughout most of the first half.
Playing up top for much of the game, seniors Bryan Percastegui and Rene Torres played off each other to try and break through the experienced back line of the Maroons.
Lehman failed to capitalize on a couple of crosses into the box by wing Jorge “Coco” Balderas, which were headed wide of the goal.
But the game showed progress the Lobos have made throughout the season, as the Lobos have adjusted to the quality of play in a new district.
Assistant coach Ramez Antoun, who filled in for head coach Brad Baker on the night, explained the difference.
“The main difference between competing in this district than in years past is the level of competition,” Antoun said. “Our kids are still out there busting their tails and competing, but the line between winning and losing is now razor thin. We experienced that firsthand tonight.”
The loss marks an 8th place finish for the Lobos in district 14-6A. Lehman concludes its season at home against Westlake on Monday.
