Tech boys soccer looking to turn around some of those close games

Close but no cigar is not what Lynn Tech boys soccer coach Fred Gallo is looking for this year.Last year, the Tigers finished 7-8-1, with six of the losses coming by one goal. Gallo is hoping for a little more firepower this year to put some of those losses in the win column.The Tigers will be without a couple of key players from last year, midfielder Yerlin Guevara and sweeper Reggie Teah, who graduated, but Gallo does return a good amount of his offense.Gallo is very happy with the numbers this year. He said last year he went into the Lynn City Tournament with 12 players. This year, he has 26 showing up for preseason practice and he expects those numbers to jump once school starts. Gallo said he may be able to field a junior varsity.The Tigers return goalie Kevin DeLeon, who picked up some experience under fire as a freshman last year.”He’s developed well this year. He was young last year and that can be a little intimidating, but he has the skill,” Gallo said.Gallo is still sorting out his defense, but senior Orlin Escalante, a four-year starter, should be out there somewhere. The midfield will benefit from a couple of experienced players in seniors Richard Jones-Alas and Pedro Blaz. Sophomore Anthony Rodriguez spent time last year up front, in the midfield and on defense. Junior Klaus Alexis was in the midfield last year, but he could find himself up front this year. Gustavo Rodriguez can play pretty much wherever he’s needed.”I’m hoping to have a strong offense this year,” Gallo said. “Last year, that was one of our shortcomings. I’m looking for more production up front ? Last year was one of the lowest-scoring seasons I’ve had.”Tech will open with Classical in the Lynn City Tournament on Tuesday, Sept. 8.”I’m excited about the season. This is probably the most excited I’ve been about it in a long time. The kids are working together, jelling. I’m expecting good things,” Gallo said.