Skyline men’s soccer’s offense has stepped up in the playoffs, but for the Trojans to defeat the Cañada College Colts next and keep the playoff run alive, the offense will need to stay consistent.

This season, the Trojans defense has been one of their key strengths, allowing opponents to score two or more goals in only four of their 20 regular-season games. However, the offense struggled throughout the season, as the team finished with five draws; three of which had a final score 0-0.

The Trojans took a 1-0 victory over Cosumnes River College in the second round of regional playoffs over the weekend, but the team’s offense did just enough to get Skyline the win. Similarly, the first round ended with a 3-2 victory for the Trojans, and while the team did score three goals, it was still the second matchup where the team cut it close on the scoreboard.  

Without a doubt, the Trojans displayed offensive strength to end the season as the team hasn’t had a scoreless game since Tuesday, Oct. 28, but it’s important to note that the team that was able to shut the Trojans out that day was Cañada. 

In the third round of playoffs, the Trojans will face their district rival, the second-place team in the Coast-South Conference and the last team the Trojans lost to this season. The stage is set for the Trojans, but will the team answer?

The answer to that question is truly dependent on Skyline’s offense. If the team takes the victory over Cañada it will have to come from the offense once again stepping up in the big moment to keep the Trojans’ playoff push moving.

Skyline’s defense is important, but when you look back at the team’s season, defensive success is an expectation, rather than a key piece to focus on with the end of the season looming.

Looking at the optics of the matchup, the Trojans may have an underrated advantage: Cañada had to play double overtime with a total of 120 minutes against Feather River College before winning on penalty kicks. The extra minutes could leave Cañada more fatigued, giving the Trojans a potential edge.

With that said, it was a home game for the Colts and the Trojans will face the team on the road for their second consecutive road game.

Overall, the Trojans will need a stellar offensive performance to beat the odds and take home a third round victory over the Colts, but if the team strikes early and pairs that with the steady defense it depended on all season, Skyline just might punch their ticket to the fourth round of regionals.