Lakewood has battled through its rough patch, scoring their third consecutive victory Monday in a shutout win over Rosewood.
After losing experienced players to graduation, Coach Jay Faircloth and his young Leopards team are finding some success now. Faircloth has credited their match with Hobbton on Sept. 7 as a turning point for the young team.
“Our chemistry is finally working together, our defense is playing lights out,” explained Faircloth “This is our second shutout and, hey, I’ll take it. Our boys are feeling good about themselves, and for a young team to win three games in a row is great.”
Logan Thomas was the match’s lone scorer, getting a goal to go with five steals. Thomas was later taken out due to an injury to his leg.
For the Leopards, Carlos Estrada had one shot and 10 steals; Edwin Vanegas added two shots and nine steals; Yiovanni Rosas had two shots and six steals;Hector Valenzuela had one shot and six steals; Jorge Ramirez amassed nine steals; and Erick Garcia tallied seven steals.
Additionally, Austin Hemandez earned one shot and three steals; Isai Rosales had three steals; Luis Maradiaga earned three steals; Mason Cashwell earned one shot two steals; and Rafael Pena tallied one shot and two steals.
Tyler Hobbs, the goalkeeper for the Leopards, also performed impressively, saving two near-goals by Rosewood.
Lakewood improves to 4-6 overall, 3-1 in conference. The team will play at Neuse Charter at 6 p.m. Wednesday before having their rematch with Hobbton in an away game on Monday.