Five days before the Liberty Christian boys soccer team opened its season, the squad found itself short of three key starters. 

Scrambling to reconfigure their lineup and game plan, head coach Ken Dildine was feeling a little uneasy. 

“We had to totally restructure how we were going to do things,” Dildine said. “We really only had a few days to make that work.” 

The Eagles did not just play well, they flourished in a 5-1 decisive win over Heritage Classical Christian Academy on Aug. 26 – the three-time defending MAC Conference Champions. 

Replacing an already solid team chemistry was not easy. But, the Eagles made it look easy. 

“We had to get as creative as we could and none of us really knew what to expect. We just had to trust them and let them do their thing,” Dildine said. 

Not only did the Eagles take down the reigning conference champs, it is believed this is the first time the program has ever defeated the Hawks, according to Activities Director Butch Clark.  

“We have definitely made our mark on them,” Dildine said. “They stepped up, they did their jobs and we were able to execute ball movement and really make a good effort.” 

Losing three sound players has shown Dildine his entire team is capable of adapting when the time is needed. 

“The whole team is helping us develop to where we need to be,” Dildine said. “Anybody that we put in a position has done tremendous things and they’ve been better than anything I could’ve imagined.” 

Dildine lauded senior captain Tommy Meyer specifically for taking the team under his wing. Meyer scored three goals, while Luke Meyer and Asher Lyons scored a goal apiece. 

“(Meyer’s) game has stepped up this year. His control, his temperament and his willingness to do what needs to be done has totally transformed the way we play,” Dildine said. 

Coming into the game the Eagles changed their style of play. Instead of working the ball on the outside-in, they worked the ball up the middle and then utilized their wings. 

“So far, it’s working really well. We were able to get the ball to the outside and make some good passes to get the ball back into the middle. We still have a lot to work on, but we’re getting there,” Dildine said. 

Dildine also credited his team’s drive for their success. 

“They’re in a position now that they know they have to step up,” Dildine said. “They’re fun, they’re in good spirits, they talk to each other. Motivation has really been key.” 

Liberty Christian will take the field next at Eagle Ridge Christian on Sept. 9. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:30 p.m.