- November 5, 2024
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It has been a grueling start to the season for the Matanzas boys soccer team.
Five of the Pirates’ first six games have been district contests, including two matchups against Seabreeze in the span of six days — the latest coming on Monday night. Seabreeze won the game, 3-1.
A tough, early schedule and several key players missing has led to a 3-2-1 start for the Pirates, including a 2-2-1 District 6-3A record.
But coach Rich Weber isn’t panicking. He knows his team will get healthy and deep as the season progresses.
“We are still very inexperienced at the varsity level,” Weber said after Monday’s loss.
Having players out due to injuries and suspension has forced Weber to move other players around. For example, junior Nick Weber and sophomore Dakotah Casale have been slid into the central midfield positions. Those two would normally be playing outside as wingers or in attacking midfielder roles.
“We’re lacking consistent depth right now, and having players out is significant,” Weber said.
Three freshman players are dressing for the varsity squad, Weber added.
Matanzas took a 1-0 lead over Seabreeze on Monday after junior Bryan Mejia converted on a penalty kick in the 28th minute.
But Seabreeze equalized just three minutes later when Jordan Collins flicked the ball into the net off a corner kick.
Just four minutes into the second half, Seabreeze’s Peter Filipovski drilled a free kick from about 25 yards. Matanzas keeper Sam Manns made the save but coughed the ball up near the six-yard box. Seabree’s Hayden Hoggarth tucked away the sitter to give his team a 2-1 lead.
Jeremiah Cronin gave Seabreeze a 3-1 lead in the 47th minute.
“There are bright moments,” Weber said.
Matanzas’ schedule continues with four more district games before the winter break.
Matanzas and Flagler Palm Coast play 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 25, in the first leg of Flagler’s version of the El Clasico.
