Bulldogs hoping for more offense in '09

Sikeston soccer players take part during a drill at a recent practice. The Sikeston soccer team will open the season Sept. 1 when they host Saxony Lutheran. David Jenkins, staff

SIKESTON -- In quite a few sports, defense wins championships. According to Sikeston Bulldogs head coach Derrick Long, soccer is no different.

"We're ready to get the season going," said Long. "I'd say this is the best shape we've ever been in after a week. We're close to game-shape now."

Long said that one key ingredient in most of the Bulldog losses last season (6-17-1) was their lack of presence on the defensive end after halftime.

"In the second half, we just broke down," he said. "The other teams capitalized and attacked."

For more pictures and stories from the Standard Democrat, click here to log on to the electronic edition.