Now that district play is in the books, the Leopard soccer team has been preparing for their first playoff game against the Frisco Centennial Titans on Friday at 7:30 p.m. at McKinney High School. The Titans finished second in their district with a record of 10-3-3. One of the main focuses for the Leopards going into this game is the strong attack of the Titans.

“The biggest thing from the scouting report that we have had is that they play with three forwards up top, so our defenders are going to have to be on top of their game,” head soccer coach Alex Duran said.

This week during practice, the team has been mainly focusing on the best way to defend the attack of the Titans.

“However, there are some ways that we can counteract their use of three forwards, so that is what we have been practicing this week,” Duran said.

Even though the team has been focusing on defense, Duran said they are prepared for anything that Centennial brings.

“Of course there are going to be a lot of different changes that go throughout the game,” Duran said. “So our boys will be able to adjust to whatever system we need to play in order to give us success that day.”

Due to their impressive record, the team sees the Titans as tough matchup. However, players are not worried about the outcome of the game.

“It’s a big challenge and is going to be a great test for us,” senior Austin Van Wagoner said. “As long as we play as a team to focus on what we need to do everything will fall into place.”

Senior Johnny Grado said the entire season has been a build-up to this moment.

“All of our hard work throughout the season has brought us to this game,” senior Johnny Grado said. “I believe we are all prepared for what’s ahead.”