In order for Lawrence boys’ soccer to duplicate last season’s gem of a season, its defense is going to have to be sturdy.
Lawrence lost two excellent defensive-minded players in middle center-back Ben Perez, who was All-State, and defensive midfielder Alex Samayoa.
In all, seven of 11 starters graduated from last season’s11-2-2 team that lost to eventual state champion Floral Park in the Nassau County A Finals.
The Golden Tornadoes allowed just 1.3 goals per game in 2024.
“This year we’re very underclassmen-heavy,’’ coach Gerard Lagasse said. “Defense was our strength but we were strong all over. I’m going to focus more on defense than offense. If the other team can’t score, we can’t lose. That’s my philosophy.’’
Senior Nelson Martinez will attempt to fill in for Perez, who plays at Nassau CC. At defensive midfield sophomore Diego Hinojosa, is going to try to fill the void despite his youth.
(Diego) will play a big role for us in the middle of the field,’’ Lagasse said. “He’s been fantastic, his work ethic is fantastic. He’s above-average technically, which is good for us. His soccer IQ is very high. He should have a nice year in an important role for us.’’
Goal scoring may be at a premium in Lawrence’s quest to dominate again after losing top scorer Kevin Mendoza. The top returning goal-scorer is senior center midfielder Corvin Pocasangre, who racked up 6 goals and 7 assists. “I’m expecting him to have a big year offensively,’’ Lagasse said. “He’s very good on the ball. He’s good at taking players 1-on-1 and has a very good shot.’’
The Golden Tornadoes also hope to get scoring from senior Jeremy Cruz, who had a dynamic playoffs, scoring a handful of key goals. He had a couple of great scoring chances in the county finals.
“We’re going to be very young,’’ Lagasse said. “I have some players who have to step up especially for Ben.’’
The one linchpin is senior goalie, Gabriel Rosales, who has started the last two years. “In my opinion, he’s one of the top five goalkeepers on Long Island,’’ Lagasse said. “I expect him to have a big year. He’s very athletic = which is part of his strength – and has cat-like reflexes. He can make the impossible saves look routine.’’
Lawrence has another Rosales on the roster – Andrew. The junior plays right wingback and is another important piece after recovering from an ACL injury in the playoffs. “He will be relied on to build our attack and help on the defense,’’ Lagasse said. “He is a player to watch in Nassau County.’’
Can Lawrence overtake unbeaten North Shore for the A-2 conference crown? Lawrence tied North Shore twice last season and the schools will meet in Glen Head in the conference opener.
Lagasse feels the conference could be a three-way battle between North Shore, Locust Valley and Lawrence.
“I’m not sure we’ll have the type of year as last year, but if everything works out, we’ll be right there,’’ Lagasse said.
