A year ago the BHS soccer team defeated Independence in a penalty kick shootout to win the regional championship. This year, the Bulldogs (14-2, first ranked in region) face Independence (5-11, eighth rank in region) at home in their first round of regional play.

“Independence could remember last year, so we will have to come out and smash their confidence,” junior Russell Cloon.

Senior captain Mason “Moose” Bandré also is ready for Independence.

“I’d like to beat them a little bit better than last time so there is no overtime,” Bandré said.

Fellow senior Alec Petry is excited for the start of his last high school regional soccer play.

“I’m pretty excited,” Petry said. “It’s the most excited I have ever been for a soccer game.”

It is also the beginning of Bandré’s last high school regional play.

“I haven’t thought about it too much,” Bandré said. “I do not want to think about it. But if we show up to play we should do just fine.”

The Bulldogs have one more senior on the squad. It is Austin Kraus, a four-year starter.

The Bulldogs believe there are certain keys to the game that will help get the win.

“I think making sure we put the pressure on them, not them on us,” Cloon said.

Petry thinks that a more possession-based play will prove helpful.

“Slowing down our play will be a key to the game,” Petry said.

Overall, the Bulldogs have a confidence about their game.

“I think we are going to get the win,” Cloon said. “Hopefully we get our offense going a little more than the last few games.”

Should the Bulldogs win tonight, they will play Thursday at home for the regional championship against the winner of Ottawa at Spring Hill.