On October 26 boys soccer began their postseason with a first round playoff game at home against Tuscarora High School.

For the playoffs Linganore is ranked the number 4 seed in the 3A West region while Tuscarora is ranked number 5. In their previous meeting in regular season the two tied in a tight encounter courtesy of a goal from midfielder Jonathan Pringle and and an unfortunate own goal from Captain Christian Nolan bringing the Tuscarora back into the game.

Before the game Nolan said, “I was at fault last time around, so I’m determined to help the team win.”

From the opening minutes, Linganore was on the front foot, pressuring the Tuscarora back line every time they got the ball and retaining possession well. With most of the ball, the Linganore defense didn’t have much to worry about allowing the fullbacks to push up and aid the team in the attack. This overwhelmed Tuscarora as they were forced into cheaply giving the ball away on many occasions.

Captain Lukas Snyder was satisfied. “We had been working on our defensive shape, pressure on the ball, and quickly transitioning from defense to offense throughout the past week. The practice paid off.”

Despite Linganore having the ball advantage, they didn’t take every opportunity.

Just about 30 minutes into the game, the deadlock was finally broken. Junior Aidan Shaw picked up the ball at the top of the box and rifled a shot into the bottom right corner sending the fans into a frenzy.

The Lancers would continue to create more chances, but they failed to complete. Shaw’s goal would be the only one scored that evening.

“Finishing off these chances will continue to be a main focus in practice,” said Coach Brian Johnson.

Linganore will continue their playoff push away at North Hagerstown High School in the 3A West Regional semifinal on October 30 at 6 p.m