Boys Soccer: Niwot wins two, drops two as league play gets underway

The Niwot boys soccer team followed a pair of wins with a pair of losses, as they closed-out their non-conference schedule and faced their first conference opponent. Niwot ended Homecoming week 5-3 on the season, but 0-1 in Northern League standings.

On September 13, the Cougars handed a 4-1 defeat to a tough Peak to Peak Charter (3-1-1) team. The Pumas, who had no losses going into their game against Niwot, are currently ranked second in Class 3A. Senior Brian Oates had a goal and an assist in the win, while junior Jason Rodriguez added a goal and two assists. Sophomore keeper Mario Muniz held the Pumas scoreless until late in the game.

The Cougars traveled to Lakewood to face Green Mountain (2-4) on September 17. For the second consecutive game, the Niwot offense exploded for four goals, while the defense held their opponent to just one. Senior Alex Arnold scored his second and third goals of the season, and Jason Rodriguez and junior Tyler Crall chipped in with a goal apiece. Munoz was once again sharp in goal.

On September 19, Niwot played its final non-conference game of 2016, against Standley Lake (4-2) in a rematch of last year’s second-round playoff loss. The Cougars again fell to the Gators 0-1, when Cougar keeper Munoz allowed a late score by Standley Lake senior Josh Griffin.

Niwot played its first Northern League game of the season against Northridge (3-5-1) on September 22. For the second game in a row, the Cougars offense was held scoreless.

Niwot was back in action for its second conference match of the season on September 27. On September 29, Niwot faces Greeley Central on September 29, then is home against Brighton on October 1.