PLATTE CITY – Last spring was the first time the Platte County girls’ soccer team finished with more losses than wins since 2014 and an experienced group is coming back with the hopes of a better season.
Platte County junior Lily Kytasaari is looking to lead the Lady Pirate offense that had some struggles throughout last season.
Platte County had an impressive stretch of 46 wins and only seven losses in 2021 and 2022 before taking a step back with a younger group in 2023, posting a record of 11-12. Eight starters are coming back in 2024 looking to get back to a district championship, which they missed out of a season ago.
“The team has been looking good and working hard in the preseason,” Platte County head girls’ soccer coach Ashlyn Brantley said. “We have some talented players; we just need to come together and play as a unit.”
It took Platte County’s offense some time to get going last year, being shut out in the opening four games, and having 11 of its 12 losses occur when scoring one or less goals. The Lady Pirates have a talented offensive junior class, which includes Lily Kytasaari, Rylee Burris and Brooklynne Jenni.
“Our top goal scorers could be Kytasaari, Burris and Jenni. While I believe they will be in the top, we should have multiple other players contributing to that department such as (Amela) Dzilic, (Saige) Dickens, (Marissa) Orellana and (Addison) Sloan,” Brantley said.
In addition to junior goalkeeper Finley Kaser, Alex Beeman, Annabel Beeman, Kaelyn Bellach and Madison Palmer make up the returning defensive starters. Midfielder Dzilic and defender Caroline Linn are two freshmen looking to contribute.
“We’re looking to possess and create opportunities getting in behind the opposing backs. I believe we will have a strong defensive line and I’m look forward to seeing how it all comes together,” Brantley said.
Saige Dickens is the only sophomore who comes in with varsity experience, being a midfielder. Jenni moved to Platte County this school year and adds depth.
“We have some new players that will be getting into the lineup. I believe they will contribute some significant minutes and help us plenty on the attacking side,” Brantley said.