Archbishop Thomas Murphy’s girls soccer team looks to be the class of the Northwest A League.
The Wildcats lost only a pair of starters from a team that went undefeated in league play and took third overall at the Class A state tournament.
“This team is very focused on definitely taking the league and getting into postseason play,” said Archbishop Murphy coach Pat Jack. “That’s what they are focusing in on.”
Two other seniors who didn’t start as well as three others are gone but Jack said she’s plugged most of the holes with some talented newcomers.
Freshman Kirsten Page will be one of the players Jack is looking to for goals along with key returners sophomore Kat Taylor and senior Lindsey Shandera.
“I think those three will score most of our goals,” Jack said.
The defense, which should be one of the Wildcats’ strengths, is anchored by sophomore sweeper Brenna Rice. Junior Caitlin Warnock also should be a key player at halfback.
“We pretty much have the same defense from last year,” Jack said. “If anything, (Rice) has gotten stronger this year.”
Archbishop Murphy opened the season with a pair of non-conference victories over Seattle Christian and Overlake. The Wildcats then beat Concrete 14-1 in their league opener Sept. 17.
At last year’s state tournament, Overlake beat Archbishop Murphy in the semifinals. The Wildcats then rebounded in the consolation game, defeating Brewster. Cedar Park Christian then defeated Overlake via a shootout in the championship game.
Jack sees the defending champs as the early favorite in 2002.
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