PREVIEW – Hoptown Looking for Encore Soccer Season (w/VIDEO)

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2018 was a record-setting year for the Hopkinsville soccer program. A third straight region title preceded the school’s first-ever trip to the state semifinals.

While the Tigers lost some firepower from last year’s 19-7-2 team, they are slated to return seven starters, including one of the top goalies in the state.

Tyler Greenwell is the leading returning scorer for the Tigers after finding the back of the net 16 times as a junior. He also assisted on six goals.

Steven Hermosillo, Welby Horn, and Jose Favela combined for 16 goals and should see an expanded offensive role in 2019.

Senior Mason Rye anchors a defense that basically returns intact from last year. After a 6-0 loss to Warren Central late in season, the Tiger defense clamped down and allowed just 10 goals over their final 11 games.

Preston Durham, Mason Marschand, and freshman Gabe Harton join Rye in the back. Xavier Bussell returns in goal after allowing just over a goal per game last year.

Defense will be expected to carry the Tigers early until they figure out who will carry the offensive load. Hoptown has seen three prolific scorers graduate the past two seasons in Ethan Noel, Caleb Joiner, and Ryan Roussel. The lack of a standout scorer may benefit the Tigers in keeping opposing defenses from keying in on one or two players.

Expect Hoptown’s defense to carry the team early until Coach Tyler Stallons gets his offensive pieces in place. Once that happens, the Tigers will be the favorite to win a fourth straight region title.

Hoptown opens their season Monday as they host Logan County.

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