Experienced RHS boys’ soccer team begins 2024 season with high expectations

As Russellville High School varsity boys soccer coach Trey Stanford enters his 8th season at the school, he's looking for his team to use their depth as a motivating factor this spring.

The Golden Tigers were very junior heavy last season and lost only three starters from last year’s 15-3-2 team, including a 4-3 playoff loss to Guntersville High School.

“We have several starters returning this year that are real competitors,“ Stanford said.

One of those is senior Erik Jacobo who is the starting striker for the team.

“Jacobo is very talented. He had a great season last year and he’ll be an absolute playmaker for us,” Stanford said.

Jacobo finished last season with 13 goals and six assists.

Another returning starter is Miguel Andres, the team's keeper.

“Andres played several years and has always contributed very well,” Stanford said.

Gabriel Tomas is the returning center back for the Golden Tigers and is coming off of a great 2023 campaign.

The Golden Tigers will also return two very talented players that had to miss last season, Martin Tomas and Ronaldo Augustin.

“Both of those guys are star defensive players,” Stanford said.

Brian Lara is another key contributor,  who was selected to participate in the AHSAA's North-South All Star Game last season.

Lara finished the season with 23 goals and six assists.

Stanford will also rely on some talented young players this spring, including Isais Jose.

“Jose is an outstanding player. Manny Martinez is a returning striker who contributed in the state championship win when he was a 9th grader,” Stanford said.

“We’re also returning Erik Jacinto who played wing last season. Jacinto plays hard and no matter what he’s doing he gives 100 percent,” Stanford said.

“This season will be interesting with all the young guys who can play. If we can find the right combination, we will make a good run in the playoffs this year,” Stanford said.

The Golden Tigers first game will be on the road at Tharptown High School on February 6th.

“Tharptown is always a very talented team. We’ll get a good look at our team right out of the gate with this match,” Stanford said.