Things looked bleak for Western Albemarle just a short time ago. The Warriors’ young, inexperienced roster had stumbled in some key district contests, and was in danger of not even making the Jefferson District tournament.
But against a talented Albemarle squad in a narrow loss in late April, Western found a little spark. Now it’s a full-fledged bonfire after a pair of home victories over Rockbridge and previously-unbeaten E.C. Glass vaulted the Warriors into the tournament as the No. 3 seed, the lone traditional JD squad to make the playoffs with Monticello and Charlottesville getting edged out.
Western beat Rockbridge in double overtime, winning 8-7. Five players got in on the scoring action, with Will Brannock scoring the decisive overtime goal. Brannock, Abbot Wallenborn and Schuylor Dickerson each had a pair of goals for the Warriors.
The most impressive victory, however, was the 6-4 upset of Lynchburg-area squad E.C. Glass that spoiled Glass’ undefeated season. The offense has come around as the Warriors have gained the ability not to simply lean on reigning Region II player of the year Wallenborn. Five players scored against Glass, with Wallenborn notching a pair of goals.
The defensive work of keeper Ben Carew anchored the Warriors in that game with 14 saves, rejecting all but four of Glass’ 18 shots on the cage.
Just before the Albemarle game, Western head coach Brad Haws, traditionally the squad’s defensive mastermind, switched responsibilities with assistant Scott Winterton, the usual offensive coordinator. The fresh eyes on each unit helped Western nearly knock off archrival Albemarle and has clearly played dividends for the Warriors.
“Plus I think some of our young guys are maturing and have developed through the ups and downs of the season,” Haws said. “Hopefully, they can maintain the consistency.”
Western takes on Salem Tuesday night at 7:30 at E.C. Glass in the JD semifinals.
