With a win over Northview, the boys JV soccer team improved to a 5-3 record on the season. All momentum pointed towards the Rangers to continue their stretch of dominance. They faced Byron Center, Portage Northern, and Forest Hills Northern. 

Byron Center was FHC’s first opponent, and they proved to be the most winnable game. In the first half, FHC struggled to get the ball to the offensive end. Byron Center capitalized off of the Rangers’ struggles and scored a goal. The intensity only increased after this goal, as the Ranger defense locked in and would not let up another goal the rest of the game. Offensively, they had many attempts to score towards the end of the game but could not find the net. The Rangers went scoreless, losing 1-0.

Coming off of a loss is never easy, and the Rangers found that out the hard way. Their next opponent, Portage Northern, displayed its defensive ability. They defended the passing lanes extraordinarily; one of Portage Northern’s steals led to a goal for Huskies. A constant theme for FHC in these three games was struggling to keep the ball on the offensive side of the field. That would change at the end of the game, though. With a few minutes left, the Rangers possessed the ball in Husky territory and looked to tie the game. Sophomore Charlie Afman looked for an open man and found sophomore Chris Dongmo for a perfect opportunity to score. Chris rose to the occasion and tied the game at one with two minutes to go. The defense stepped up, closing out the game.

FHC’s record sat at 5-4-1, but they had their biggest game ahead of them: Forest Hills Northern. The Huskies have been known to be a big-time program when it comes to soccer. Heading into the game, the team expected a tough game. However, the outcome was much different than expected. Northern scored early and put FHC on its heels. After controlling the pace of the game, and passing it with ease, FHN created a large lead. Chris had a scoring opportunity late and capitalized on it. The Huskies surged past the Rangers, winning 8-1. 

The JV soccer team record changes to 5-5-1 after the long week. Forest Hills Central’s next game is this Wednesday against the South Christian Sailors. It is also their last game of the year, so head coach Robert Otterbein wants the Rangers to finish strong.

“When we look back on the season, winning this game is crucial,” coach Otterbein said. “Winning this game ends the season on a good note and creates a positive start for next year.”