KLAMATH FALLS, Ore – The Henley Hornets boys’ soccer team (15-0-1) is gearing up for the state semifinal where they will meet a familiar foe in the Phoenix Pirates (9-6-1). Henley defeated Phoenix twice in the regular season by scores of 2-1 and 3-0.
“Playing Phoenix in the semi-finals does not mean much as far as familiarity,” said head coach Lupe Gonzales. “We have played each other twice this season but each game is different and each team expects to make changes based on the first two games. Henley has a goal in mind and see Phoenix as a part of that goal.”
The goal for Henley is the state title game. In the Hornets’ history, they have attended five state championships and have two titles to show for it in 1989 and 1990. Most recently Henley played in the 2013 title game where they lost to Sisters 1-0. This Hornets team has proven to be different and has not let adversity get to them.
“This Henley team has matured throughout the season. For the most part, we have worked on recognizing things we can control and letting go of things we cannot such as: not arguing with referees, doing our best to keep composure,” Gonzales said. “This discipline was especially in full display at Saturday’s game vs Estacada. At the start of the second half, Estacada gained momentum, capitalized on several errors, and put themselves back in the game. Greg [Morton], Abel [Flores], and I were proud of our boys for regaining composure and uniting back to our game plan.”
Statistically, this Henley team is impressive as well. This season they have scored 75 goals while only allowing nine through 16 matches. That tallies them with the best goal differential in the state at +66 when no one else has even scored 64 goals. Stayton has scored the second most in the state with 63. As far as goals allowed, they are third to Philomath (3) and Stayton (8).
According to coach Gonzales, this team has rallied behind a group of senior leaders that embodies the tradition of Henley boys soccer.
“Our captains and senior leaders have taken this team concept and evolved it into a “family” type atmosphere. It is awesome to see players genuinely happy and excited for their teammates when they score or make a game-changing play!”
The 2-seed Hornets battle the 14-seed Phoenix Pirates, who upset Philomath and Hidden Valley to earn this spot in the semifinals. The action begins at 6:30 pm on Wednesday night at Mazama High School.
“We are excited for our school and our soccer family. We’ve had awesome support throughout this season from our parents, Henley students, and soccer community,” Gonzales said. “It is always nice to see former players and their families come watch us play!”
