North Allegheny boys soccer sets goal: Section championship

By: Josh Rizzo
Thursday, August 22, 2019 | 9:00 PM

Losing players to graduation is something North Allegheny boys soccer coach Bobby Vosmaer has to deal with annually.

What makes things easier is the depth the program consistently produces. While North Allegheny lost starting goalkeeper Devon Angermeier from last season, the Tigers have three potential replacements Vosmaer believe can help fill the role.

Entering the season, senior Jonathan Patridge is the only goalkeeper listed on the roster, but things can change as certain situations arise.

That’s where the Tigers’ depth comes into play.

“Any kind of players you have that gives you depth is a bonus,” Vosmaer said. “Any player could get injured in the first five minutes of the season and not return. So far, so good. I’m happy with what’s developing. We’ll see what we do.”

The Tigers, who finished 10-6-1 before falling to Peters Township in the first round of the WPIAL Class AAAA playoffs last season, begin their quest for another postseason trip when they face Hampton in a nonsection matchup Aug. 31 on the road.

North Allegheny is motivated to pursue the section title after sneaking into the playoffs by placing fourth last season. Section 1 has produced every WPIAL champion since the district expanded from three to four classes in 2016. North Allegheny won the first two crowns, and Seneca Valley broke through to win its first championship last year.

“We want to win the section this year,” Vosmaer said. “That’s our goal. If we get there, I don’t know.”

Returning to help the Tigers pursue that goal will be two all-section players in senior forward Will Cinker and senior midfielder Jonathan Ross.

Cinker led the team with seven goals last season, and Ross added three.

North Allegheny’s roster is loaded with 20 seniors to replace the 12 who departed last year. Vosmaer pointed out one key aspect for his team’s success.

“I think the physical end for us is going to be where we can shine,” Vosmaer said. “If we hold up against physical play, because that’s how other teams play against us, we are going to be good.”

Tags: North Allegheny