The Shady Side Academy boys soccer team, under the leadership of new coach Graeme Dunlap, has gotten off to a strong start in WPIAL Section 2-AA action as the midway point of the season approaches.
The Indians entered the week 5-1 in the section, and last Thursday, they picked up a big win over Knoch, 3-2.
In that game, junior Matt Rytel scored two goals and assisted on the winner by sophomore Dipak Krishnan with 18 seconds left.
“That was an important game for us, and Matt had a great game,” Dunlap said. “His pass to Dipak was perfect at the end. Matt's been our go-to guy on offense, and he scores a lot of goals and makes some great passes even though he's shadowed every game.”
Dunlap took over for James Meara, and he did not have to initiate any sweeping changes.
“I've been with James for nine years,” he said. “The team didn't have to start from scratch learning new systems or styles of play, which was an advantage for them. There was no need for big changes. We basically had the same starting lineup from last year, and they didn't have to go through a process of change.”
The Indians boast a wealth of experience and leadership.
“That's the strength of this team,” Dunlap said. “We have our core guys that basically run the team. They do anything the coaches ask and don't second-guess. They're leaders who are willing to help the younger guys both on and off the field.”
Aside from Rytel, the Indians are led by senior captain Conan Smith, senior Russell Hunt and juniors Brendan Brazinski and Gray Girrard. Dunlap has watched Smith progress for quite a while.
“I've known Conan for 15 years,” he said. “I used to babysit him. It's been fun watching him learn the game over the years.”
Five newcomers to the team, all sophomores, also contribute to the success. Krishnan, Patrick Hill-Junke, brothers Alex and Eric Zhang and Mac Ference have been welcome additions.
“Mac had never played soccer before. I recruited him from the hockey team, and he's done well,” Dunlap said. “I did have to remind him that the rules are a little different in soccer.”
Defensively, senior goaltender Phil King has been a fortress.
“His play has been fantastic,” Dunlap said. “I believe at one point, he had strung together over 500 minutes of scoreless goaltending. Some of his saves have been unbelievable.”
Dunlap has made good use of Will Stewart and Steven Davis off the bench.
“We're looking forward to the second half of section play,” Dunlap said, “and we're confident that our success will continue.”
Marty Stewart is a sports editor for Trib Total Media. Reach him at 412-782-2123 or mstewart@tribweb.com.
