With eight returning starters from last season’s squad that went 6-6 overall, the Oakville boys soccer team is focused on a winning season in 2021

“I think we’re looking pretty good right now,” Oakville head coach Brad Oestrich said. “The cohesiveness is there with this team and I’m really excited about it. It’s definitely a positive for us this year.”

Junior forward Issac Lillard returns as the Tiger’s top scoring threat after recording four goals during the 2020 campaign.

“Issac has the ability to fly by people in one-on-one situations and get that opportunity to score,” Oestrich said. “He keeps improving for us every year.”

Another junior that will play at forward this season is Seth Gallagher, who recorded one goal and one assist last season.

“Seth has gotten quicker and his touch with the ball has gotten better,” Oestrich said. “He has good awareness as to where he is on the field and where the goal is.”

Senior Danny Nusinovic rounds out the returning forwards for this year’s squad after recording one goal for Oakville in 2020.

“Danny has the unique ability to take people one-on-one,” Oestrich said. “He’s the kind of player that’s always hungry to score.”

In the midfield for the Tigers will be senior Ian Meyer who scored one goal last season.

“Ian has the ability to be calm on the ball and never really panics,” Oestrich said. “That and his ability to distribute the ball well has really impressed me this season.”

Anchoring the Oakville defense this season will be seniors Josh Seyer and Patrick Drennan along with sophomore Sam Larkins. Last season Seyer notched two goals for the Tigers while Larkins had one goal during his freshman season on the varsity squad.

“We are really looking for Josh to establish that leadership role on the field and really taking charge of the backfield,” Oestrich said. “Patrick is confident and has the ability to win balls in the air and then distribute the ball from the backfield. Sam is a solid defender for us and we look for him to take the lead for Josh and Patrick in the backfield.”

Junior Will Beach returns as the Tiger’s starting goalkeeper after going 2-3 with a 1.76 goals against average in 2020.

“Will’s biggest improvement is his confidence,” Oestrich said. “He’s one of those players that surprises me every day with his agility and ability to anticipate shots on goal.”

The Tigers start the 2021 season at Francis Howell on Aug. 31.