The Western men’s soccer team began the 2019 spring season with a 0-1 loss Friday night at Robert S. Harrington Field against University of the Fraser Valley in an exhibition match.
Both defenses played tough throughout the game, primarily in the first half. Fraser Valley was able to score the game’s only goal on a penalty kick just 3 minutes into the second half. The Vikings moved the ball up the field but came up short in finding the back of the net despite some close shots.
Head coach Greg Brisbon said he was glad to be back on the field for the exhibition game after the long off-season. He said he feels good about the team’s outlook for this spring.
“It was good to see them play. It’s been a while, so that’s my favorite thing about it,” Brisbon said. “We’re trying to get better from the fall, get guys minutes that haven’t played a lot to see where they’re at and then just try to work on things that can get us to the next step next fall.”
Third-year midfielder Drew Farnsworth said he was ready to take the field again with his teammates with some goals in mind.
“It’s really good. Good to get a feel of the guys who don’t play too much and get a run in,” Farnsworth said. “Just get as many guys on the field as possible and improve from there.”
Fourth-year forward Ryan Schaefer said he was excited to be back in the competitive environment after several months off.
“It’s great. It’s a break when you end in November so you are waiting five months to actually do something competitive,” Schaefer said. “It’s a lot of anticipation and just feels good to get the legs out.”
Schaefer also knew what it would take for the Vikings to accomplish all of their goals this season.
“It’s going to take a lot of work. You’re only allocated a certain amount of hours on the field so it’s going to take us doing some things on our own and getting everyone behind the same message.” Schaefer said.
The Vikings season continues with a road matchup against Trinity Western University on Wednesday, April 10. Viking fans can see the team again April 13 for their next home match against the University of Washington.
