Flagler Looks to Keep Win Streak Alive In Important Conference Match

By Michael Alaimo

Oct. 21 St. Augustine, FLA - Flagler College men’s soccer team seeks to build upon its recent series of successful performances as it approaches the conclusion of the regular season. The outcome of this match holds significant implications for their respective positions as the playoff competition intensifies.

Flagler College’s men’s soccer team has its eyes on a key Peach Belt Conference showdown

Wednesday night, as the Saints take on Georgia Southwestern at Saints Field. Coach Thomas Coombes explains how vital and important it is for his team to finish strong as they approach the last few games before the playoffs. 

“For us it is very important to continue the momentum we have created and remain consistent so that we head into playoffs with confidence. We have a very strong record right now, but we know that if we lose our focus then the record can look very different within a few games. All we can do is continue to focus on our performances, hopefully continue winning and see how everything looks at the end of season!"

Coming into this game, the Saints are 8-2-4 and 5-1-3 in the Peach Belt conference. They are one point behind first-placed North Georgia. Flagler is led on offense by forwards like Luke Williams and Herny Oklena. Other notable stars include Midfielder Alex Alexandrou, Defender Owen Cunha and Goalkeeper River Rivas. 

Georgia Southwestern, under the guidance of head coach Joe Barber, enters the match with a record of 3–3–1 in conference play. The Hurricanes have shown resilience and determination, making them a formidable opponent. Their offensive threats include Cesar Rubio-Amaya, who leads the team and conference in goals scored, and Axel-Ambroise Gravel, known for his creative playmaking abilities.

Coach Coombes, emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and discipline throughout the match. 

"Georgia Southwestern is a well-coached team with dangerous attacking players," he said. "We need to stay organized defensively and capitalize on our scoring opportunities."

Forward Luke Williams is entering the game, with previously been awarded the Player of the Week award for the Peach Belt Conference. He currently leads Flager with 5 goals and is one of the conference's top goal scorers. Coach Coombes praised Flagler Forward Williams. 

“Luke is a big player for us both, both physically and with the influence he has on games.

He has improved year and year and his goal return and assist are evidence of that. However, Luke is also a fantastic teammate, and he would be the first to admit that it takes a group effort to achieve success.”  

Coombes went on to say how hes also blessed with many great players this season as well. 

“We are fortunate that we have many talented players, and we know that any player can step up and have big moments. Hopefully, we have many more big moments in the upcoming games!”

Kick off is at 7 pm at Saints Field in Saint Augustine, FL. You can watch the game through the Flagler College Athletics site.