Platte County senior Gavin Nichols is expected to be the top offensive threat this fall.
A tough district semifinal loss in overtime to Pembroke Hill was an uncharacteristic ending for the Platte County boys’ soccer team which had reached the district championship game in nine of the last 10 seasons prior.
The Pirates will look to make another run since they have a loaded senior class – four of which were starters last season – that has posted an impressive 47-16 record thus far in their high school careers. Platte County has been accustomed to a winning culture, tallying 11 consecutive victories to close out the regular season and clinch the No. 2 seed in the Class 3 District 8 Tournament.
“We have a good mix of experienced players and new ones coming to us,” Platte County boys’ soccer coach Ashlyn Brantley said. “We have some gaps to fill from last season but have confidence in each of their abilities.”
Senior forward Gavin Nichols has been an offensive threat for the Pirates the last few years and that hasn’t changed this year. Defender Daniel Bunge and midfielders Connor Currence, A.J. Schrick and Josh Nelson complete the senior returning starters.
“I can see Nichols, Schrick, and Nelson being top scorers. I would not be surprised if some of our backs get a few goals off corners. (Julian) Nemeth could get some opportunities, and (Fabian) Risager has a great shot,” Brantley said.
Andrew Reinsch, Cameron Habel and Julian Nemeth were midfielders that were in the rotation last fall, along with forward Jonathan Ibarra. On the defensive side of the ball, Aidan Murray, Paul Havemeier, Bresner Garcia and Fabian Risager will be competing for some minutes.
“I believe for us to be successful, we will need positive leadership. We’ll also need to play to our strengths of possessing and staying relaxed on the ball. We also need to hold tight and work together on the defensive side with a lot of communication,” Brantley said.
Platte County sophomore defender Jackson Goodale is the most experienced underclassmen, looking to continue to cause havoc on opposing offenses. The Pirates forced five shutouts last year and will look to build off their 16-5 season.