By Chris Parker
West Plains soccer won nine games last season, which was the most for the program since at least 2009 when MSHSAA started keeping records.
The Zizzers are looking for even more this year with nine starters returning.
“We are returning 9 starters,” West Plains head coach Amy Lipford said. “This just doesn’t happen often. These girls have played together for three years and had a great season last year.”
Starting things on the attack will be senior Emma Worsham and freshman Lyndzey Casey. Worsham had 14 goals as a junior.
“I am very excited to look at the combo of Lyndzey Casey and Emma Worsham working together up top,” Lipford said. “Both have incredible speed and just don’t quit. Emma has worked hard at developing her footwork and is looking to be a leading scorer for the team again this season. Lyndzey is a new addition to the team that we are very excited about. Her sister has been a four-year starter and Lyndzey is looking to do the same. She has a confidence about her skills that takes years to develop. She will be a huge asset on the attack.”
Seniors Kennedi Keller and Lexus Casey will be in the midfield. Casey scored 12 goals and had 13 assist last season while Keller provided six goals and two assists.
“These girls have been playing together for years,” Lipford said. “Both have great ball handling skills and aren’t afraid to get in and play hard. Both players can play anywhere on the field and play well. Casey was a top scorer last season and led the team in assists. Keller played a lot of forward for us last season, but I am excited to have someone with her skills at mid. She will be a huge asset on both sides of the field.”
A pair of all-conference players in Bella Ovalle (senior) and Tori Lipford (junior) will anchor the defense this year.
“The two played last season together and complement each other well,” Coach Lipford said. “The pair is quick and enjoy the challenge of playing in the back. Ovalle is one of the fastest on the team and has the ability to run people down if she happens to get beat. Lipford is very determined and hates to lose in a one-on-one situation. Lipford will also play in the goal for us when needed.”
Sophomore Maren Thompson will transition to playing goalkeeper this season.
“Maren Thompson is new to the position, but not to the game,” Coach Lipford said. “She is transitioning beautifully to the position, and we are excited to see her in action. She is embracing the new position with enthusiasm and continues to develop skills in this area.”
West Plains opens a season with high expectations on Mar. 18 at Marshfield.
“Last season we were 9-14 – one of the best seasons the team has ever had,” Lipford said. “We are looking to add to our wins this year. We lost five games last season by only one goal. We focused a lot on defense last season. One obvious objective of last season was to allow fewer goals and we did that. This season, while defense will still be a focus, we want to be more aggressive on the offense, and I believe we have girls that want to make that happen.”
