In the wake of a surprising victory over the Marion Wildcats, it appears the Herrin/Carterville Co-op Soccer Team has returned with a reinvigorated spirit for the 2019 season. After an upsetting 5-4 loss in playoffs last year, the boys were able to defeat their long-time rivals in a 4-2 victory over Marion at the Marion High School Field. With a record of 4-1 so far this season, the team seems to be catching their stride to another conference playoff appearance. 

Their only loss so far this season has come from Father McGivney Catholic of Glen Carbon, losing 2-1 in a triple overtime play. Catching up with sophomore Jesus Mendez, we asked what happened during that big loss and how it affects the team going forward. “We played well, just lost a lot of steam by that (third) overtime,” states Mendez. “Especially after winning 1-0 in triple overtime against Mascoutah earlier that day. Hopefully, we’re able to use that loss as a drive for the remainder of this season.” 

The Herrin/Carterville Boys game on Tuesday, Sept. 10 against Centralia was canceled due to a heat advisory, but they will be back on the field at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 12 against the Pinckneyville Panthers. “Pinckneyville is always a good game, hopefully we’ll be well rested for that game after the little break,” Mendez continued with a determined smile, resembling the same determination I expect we’ll see from all of the team for the remainder of this season. 

If you aren’t able to make the Pinckneyville game at Cannon Park in Carterville on Thursday, Sept. 12, their next game will be at Massac County High School against the Patriots on Sept. 16 at 4:30 p.m. Hope to see you there!