With 18 members, including 11 seniors, back from last year’s 8-12-2 bi-district championship squad, the Brownwood Lions wasted little time sending a message that they’re determined for greater successes during head coach Michael Westerman’s second season.
The Lions kicked off their 2023 soccer campaign Tuesday night at Gordon Wood Stadium with a 3-0 shutout victory over the Burnet Bulldogs
“I’m very pleased with the overall result,” Westerman said. “It’s good to come out on top after a long offseason. The guys were eager to come out here and compete. Obviously there’s a lot to work on and develop after this game. We were exposed a lot, but overall I’m very pleased with the effort.”
Caleb Nelson scored the first and last goal, while Junior Martinez tacked on one as well to spark the offense. Brownwood led by a 2-0 count at halftime.
“We’ve been working this offseason with Caleb to be on the ball more and take more command on the ball,” Westerman said. “That first goal was the result of his work ethic in the offseason and working on those traits. And it’s phenomenal to have Junior out here this year, we didn’t have him last year. A ball popped out and he hit a volley from about 20 yards out. Of course he’s the kicker for football so he has quite the leg on him.”
On the defensive end, the shutout was a welcome sight with an influx of new defenders this season.
“It’s a completely new back line from last year and I’m extremely pleased with the boys who are stepping up and filling those positions,” Westerman said. “To get a shutout in the first game is something to be very happy about.”
Regarding additional bright spots in the victory, Westerman added, “I was most happy with the energy, the mentality, the work ethic, the willingness to compete. We got minutes on everyone today. Everyone is eager to step on the field and everyone showed that tonight, so it can make it difficult to distribute those minutes.”
The Lions (1-0) will be back in action Thursday through Saturday at the Georgetown tournament.
