Men’s soccer is nearing the end of its 2025 campaign. After securing the 6th overall seed in the state playoffs, every game may be the last, as the Gators fight for the school’s first state title in soccer.
The Gators finished the regular season with an overall record of 14-6-3, while finishing 2nd overall in the conference with a record 7-4-1. Junior Tyler Pidgeon led the Gators with a resounding 22 goals, which broke the school regular season goals record. Senior Tyson Hinckley was the only other Gator in double digit goals, with 11 on the season.
The Gators first round matchup was drawn against the 11th overall seed, the Corinth Holders. The Holders finished the regular season with a record of 12-12.
Throughout the game, tensions were high, with the result of the first half ending 0-0. After the break, the Gators finally broke through with a goal from Junior Derek Salas, giving the Gators a 1-0 lead. Shortly after, Junior Tyler Pidgeon netted his 23rd goal of the season, to give the Gators an ensuring 2-0 lead. The Gators then finished the game strong, securing the clean sheet and advanced on to the 2nd round of the playoffs.
Junior Tyler Pidgeon believes this opening win can be the catalyst for more to come.
“It was a good opening playoff win,” Pidgeon said. “We can definitely take the momentum from the win to Broughton.”
Speaking of Broughton, the Gators match up with the Capitals in the second round tonight. This marks the second matchup between the two sides, with the first one ending in a 1-1 draw at the beginning of the season.
Broughton secured the 3rd overall seed in the playoffs. The capitals finished with an overall record of 16-2-4.
Pidgeon believes the stakes of the playoffs may influence the result of the game being different from before.
“We are playing them in a win or go home situation. If we play our game we have a great opportunity to get a road upset playoff win.” Pidgeon said.
Tonight at 6 the Gators will take the pitch against Broughton. If you can come out and support the Gators at Broughton, as they look to continue their journey to a state championship.
