The whistle blows as varsity boys soccer lose their 13th game of the 2024 season. Last year, their best result was a draw. The team has had a more successful season this year, with many returning players and first-year varsity sophomores leading the way.

Starting the season with four wins against Langley, Falls Church, Woodson and Marshall High Schools, boys soccer has already surpassed their total wins from the past three years combined. They’ve won 5 games this year versus 3 in the past three years.

“We’ve been playing pretty well; it’s like a completely different team compared to last year,” senior center back Justin Gutkowski said. “I’m super confident for the rest of the season.” 

The boys soccer attack has increased from last season, scoring eight goals in three games, compared to two goals in three games the past season. Sophomore left winger Kyle Hammer scored a hat trick (scoring three goals in one match) in their first game against Falls Church. He believes that their attack is improving greatly this year.

We’ve been creating chances and taking advantage of them,” Hammer said. “It feels like we’re clicking as a team.” 

Last year, the team struggled to convert their goals, scoring eight goals the whole season. Sophomore left back Tommy Cross also thinks that the attack has been crucial, helping out Hammer with two assists in the game against Falls Church. 

“We’re solid in the back,” Cross said. “When we get the ball, we’re moving it quickly to set up the attack.” 

The team’s defense let up four goals in the five games compared to nine in five games the year prior. Looking ahead to their next challenge at home against Oakton high school on May 2, the team looks to add their fourth win in a row and keep their momentum.

“I feel like it’s very well deserved, because we work super hard.,” Cross said. “I just hope we can keep the momentum we have.”

The team began district play on April 25, where they played with a game against Madison, the game last year did not go in chantilly’s favor, losing 7-1. Although this year was different the team came away with a victory winning 2-0.

“Westfield will be a very tough challenge,” Cross said. “If we have a game like we did against Falls Church, we have a shot.”

With a three game win streak, the team is feeling confident. They believe the momentum can help them make a good run this postseason.

“We already have more wins than last season,” Gutkowski said. “I think we definitely have the talent to win districts and hopefully more.”