Playoffs have a different feel to them.

North has cruised in the regular season, dispatching of its competition game after game. However, after the first half of yesterday’s first round game against Liberal, North found themselves tied 1-1.

“In the first half Liberal asked questions of our defense through counter attacking and winning set pieces in our half.  We told the team that playoff soccer is played with higher intensity & a greater sense of urgency that translates to quicker pace of play.  Your mistakes get amplified,” Head Coach Curt Wullschleger said.

North answered the call.

Behind two goals in less than a minute, North blitzed Liberal with six second half goals to win 7-1. They will face the winner of Heights and Manhattan on Thursday at North at 4 p.m.

“Goals change games.  Twice in the second half we score two goals back to back in less than a minute, ” Wullschleger said. “When the 3^rd goal was scored via PK by #21 Francisco Lopez we were able to take Liberal’s will to fight away and the flood gates opened.  Six second half goals was the result of team play, one touch combination soccer, and clinical finishing.”

North was led by Senion Uriel Aguilera who scored three goals. Emiliano Gallo and Alvaro Quezada each added a goal and two assists.

“We need to enjoy the moment and celebrate our success,” Wullschleger said.   “The match on Monday was the first playoff win for all of our players.  Staying focused on the job to be done is paramount.  Survive and advance one game at a time.  Thursday we play for a plaque on the wall.  They don’t just hand those out to everyone, so the team will be hungry for hardware!  Come support us on Thursday at 4:00 in the regional championship match.”