Transition is the name of the game for Jordan boys’ soccer this season.
The Panthers want to transition into a Moore League contender again by being more dedicated and trusting the system that coach Deyan Doychev is implementing— which relies on quick transitions.
“We want our counter attacks to be really harsh on our opponents,” junior Ernesto Chavez said. “As a team we’ve worked on our commitment and discipline towards the sport of soccer.”
Part of that rededication to the craft has come from Doychev’s attention to details.
“We need more commitment regarding our shared experience and my knowledge to gain an advantage so we can start winning games,” Doychev said. “I want them to pass the ball, move quickly and transition.”
In order to be more cohesive on the field, Chavez and other upperclassmen have put extra effort towards teaching the younger players.
“Success is making a good connection between the players,” Chavez said. “If you have a good connection everything else will take care of itself. We’ve been going out as a group to work on chemistry and it’s been working.”
Doychev said that his captain Chavez has been learning quickly how to step into a leadership role. The junior midfielder will also be relied upon to inject some poise into his squad.
“Having a blank mind at all times and never panicking when the ball is coming towards you is the best way to lead,” Chavez said.
Junior Jonathan Cerritos, and Juan Lopez-Hernandez on the left wing, have been showing a lot of promise creating opportunities to transition into attack.
They’ll be trying to feed Adiel Palma and Jacob Macias up top. The lefty Macias is a newcomer with good size, and Palma’s goals in scrimmages has given his entire team confidence going forward, according to Doychev.
Defensively, junior Yohan Flores has become a very vocal leader while working with strong left back Salvador Borrayo and agile center back Alex Soto.
Despite the referee strike, Doychev tried to fill his schedule with as many games as possible this season.
“It’s going to be challenging but it’s going to be good for gathering some information for new things that we hope we’re showing improvement,” he said. “We have to be more accurate with our first-touch passing. We have to learn from our past mistakes, and only playing can help us do that.”
“The key is to enjoy the game,” Chavez added. “It’s a sport and it should be played with a smile on your face.”
Jordan hasn’t won the Moore League since 1995.
