Andover Boys Soccer Returns to Field Experienced, Hungry

The Barons boys varsity soccer team has plenty of experience this season, returning 10 starters from a 2010 squad that finished 13-4-2.

And Head Coach Geoff Parkinson said he believes having a veteran-stacked lineup will translate to more success on the pitch in 2011.

“This is a group that will use its past knowledge to help themselves win games this year,” he said. “They all think the game extremely well. In tight spots, they want to come through for each other."

The Barons are 1-1-1 on the young season and are coming off their first victory (2-0) over North Farmington last Thursday. They face district rival Lahser High School tonight at 7 p.m. at home. At stake is the battle for the axe, which is currently on display in Lahser's main office.

Nick Shadino and Will Nees will be the Barons top scoring options, while Greg Mitchem controls the action in the midfield. Junior Truman Lorik, a third-year starter, is one of the best goalkeepers in his conference.

"It’s a fun group to coach," Parkinson said. "We’re looking to exceed what we did last season and I think we have the weapons to do that.”