It is always tough to end a season. It is even tougher when that conclusion comes by a single point. That was the case for the Barton Community College men’s soccer team Sunday.
The Cougars saw their season come to an end in Coffeyville in second round playoff action with a 1-0 loss to the Red Ravens. Coffeyville moves on to the Plains District Semifinals against the winner of Region II out of Oklahoma. Barton ends its season with a 7-6-3 mark.
“Being in the region semifinal we knew it would be a very tough task,” Coach Aaron Avila said. “The guys were up for the challenge and player well. We outshot them and outplayed them for the most part but were unable to finish any of our chances.”
An early second half goal was the difference in what was a defensive battle throughout. The Cougars were unable to take advantage of a 25-35 mph wind at its back in the opening half as the two teams went to half at nil.
It didn’t take long for Coffeyville to take advantage of that wind – which had died to about 20 mph by the start of the half as the sun began to set. The Red Raven’s Mike Dias broke the scoreless tie five minutes into the half in what would be the game winner.
The Cougars had a great chance to tie the game in the 87th minute but as Barton had a 1-on-1 shot opportunity but Red Raven keeper Walker Farrar came up with the save, blocking the shot then diving on the loose ball to secure the lead and the eventual win.
“They were able to take advantage of a defensive breakdown early in the second half and that was the game winning goal for them,” Coach Avila said. “We had our chance to tie it at the end and sent it to overtime but were unable to do it.
“I am proud of how the guys played and I am looking forward to next season.”
Coffeyville will advance to district play with a 13-4-2 mark.