Niwot boys soccer looking for footing in Granite Peaks League

On Wednesday, Oct. 9, Niwot varsity boys soccer fell to rival Silver Creek High School, 1-0, in a hard-fought contest.

The loss dropped the Cougars to a 0-2-1 league record and a 6-4-1 overall record. After nearly completing a monumental comeback the previous week against Longmont High School, they drew against Centaurus High School on Monday, Oct. 7, in a 2-2 tie, with goals by Sullivan Burns and Colin Mundt. However, they went without a goal in their loss to Silver Creek at home. Winless in the Granite Peaks League so far, Niwot is searching for answers as the playoffs fast approach.

Despite a tough couple of weeks, the Cougars can take away several positives from the season thus far. Even after conceding three or more goals to Fairview High School and Longmont, Niwot still boasts one of the most solid defenses in the league. They have allowed only 13 goals all year, with only Holy Family and Longmont allowing fewer.

Additionally, the Cougars have shown they possess offensive weapons: speedy wingers Cruz Reyes and Sullivan Burns, playmaker Jay Scharfe, and goal scorers Mundt, Xayden Del Rio, and Gavin Engtrakul. All of these players have had flashes of offensive brilliance and are looking to capitalize more often on their chances. The team’s set plays have also looked dangerous, especially when they’ve drawn fouls or earned corner kicks.

Their last three games have pitted the Cougars against formidable competition. Longmont, Silver Creek, and Centaurus are ranked first, second, and third in the league. Facing such difficult teams now and needing to find solutions will serve the Cougars well should they make the playoffs.

However, to ensure a playoff spot, Niwot needs to start winning league games. The final four games of the season present a more forgiving schedule, and the Cougars must capitalize to secure their place in the tournament, which begins on Halloween night.

Their next match is at Holy Family on Tuesday, Oct. 15, followed by a home game against Mead High School on Thursday, Oct. 17, at 6:30 p.m.