SK confident going down the stretch

It’s crunch time for the South Kitsap High School soccer team, and its coach is loving every minute of it.

Coach Eric Bergeson said he is thrilled with the way his team has battled back from a sluggish start to challenge for second place, if not first, in the Narrows League Bridge Division.

Though the chances of catching Gig Harbor are slim, Bergeson said he’ll take his team over any team thus far in the season.

Fresh of a solid 2-2 tie at Gig Harbor, the Wolves (4-2-1 league, 5-3-1 overall) entered their game against Olympic last night with a three-point lead in the standings over Olympic for second place.

Results of the Olympic game were unavailable at press time.

Bergeson stressed the importance of beating Olympic (last night) and North Kitsap Thursday.

“This is the biggest week so far for us,” Bergeson said. “After Olympic we’ve got North Kitsap and Port Angeles, who already beat us. If we get by those teams, we’ll be in great shape. Of course PA will be a revenge game for us.”

SK defeated Olympic earlier 3-2 but lost to PA 2-1.

Both of those games were played without sophomore sweeper Robbie Robinson, who had to sit out because of a red card.

With Robinson back and Brandon Stacy back in the fold, Bergeson said his defense is the toughest its been all season.

The statistics bear him out.

In the last six games (not including last night) SK has allowed just three goals.

Bergeson said he’s pleased with the play of sophomore goalkeeper Dan Phelps.

“Danny is playing very hard and with a working attitude,” Bergeson said. “He’s maturing.”

The sparkplug on offense has been the play of junior Jerad Kupietz.

Not only is he tied for fourth in the league in goals, but he is second in assists.

“I’m more impressed with his assists,” Bergeson said. “Jerad has bought into the team concept and sees the rewards.”

Stacy, who was a midfielder before getting hurt two weeks ago, was placed in the defensive backfield and has flourished, Bergeson said.

“Stacy can play anywhere on the field but he usually directs the ball to the left side,” Bergeson said. “Evan (Winslow) is a little better at directing the ball to both sides of the field.”

Bergeson said the team chemistry is at its peak and now it’s a matter of going out and getting the job done.

SK’s next home game is Tuesday against PA at 5 p.m.

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.