The Manhattan High School boys soccer team launched their 2025 season with an opening game against Topeka, showcasing resilience and skill. MHS, head coached by Mike Sanchez, set a strong tone for the season with a 0-2-1 record in their opening matches.
“I think the only direction is up,” assistant coach Marshal Adams said. “After a poor start to a season, there are glimpses of good things, and so if we can continue to build on the good things, there’s no reason why we can’t turn the season into a more successful season.”
On Aug. 29, Manhattan faced the Topeka High Trojans at home. The game ended in a loss for Manhattan, 5-1.
MHS then traveled to the Blue Valley West Tournament on Sept. 2 to take on the Blue Valley Northwest Huskies, losing 5-0
”We’ve managed to score a couple goals and create some opportunities but can’t put them all away, and then defensively, we let in quite a few goals,” junior Colby Taylor said. “if we just did those moments better and really connected with those moments we could have done better.”
In their most recent game, MHS took on the Shawnee Mission West Vikings where they tied the game 0-0.
“I’m hoping that we just continue to have the buy in and that we put in the effort to get better and not just go through the motions,” Taylor said. “It’s hard when you don’t start well to continue to push yourself. But if our guys can do that, then there’s no reason they can’t get a lot better.”
The team aims to play more competitively and make it farther into the season then previous years with more wins. Looking ahead, the team prepares for a matchup against the Seaman Vikings Sept. 11.
“I’d like to see… some more communication and really working together as a unit on the field instead of relying on individuals,” Adams said. “I think we’ve done well learning how to play together and in the system that we want.”
