By RYAN ARENA

L’ObserVATEUR

RESERVE – East St. John rolled into district play this week on a high, going 2-0-1 at the St. Michael’s Holiday Tournament to conclude pre-district play with an unbeaten record.

East St. John stands at 7-0-2 after downing West Feliciana and the St. Michael’s JV and tying Denham Springs at the tourney.

“We’re off to a pretty good start,” said East St. John coach Paul Dupuy. “I thought this team could get out on a run like this, maybe even a bit better. But when you haven’t lost yet, you can’t complain too much about anything.”

Against West Feliciana, DeChris Strong scored the game-winning — and only — goal 39 minutes into the second half to lift

“We fought hard. The wind was really wreaking havoc with the ball,” said Dupuy. “We played well defensively.”

Against the St. Michael’s JV, the Wildcats prevailed 2-0 behind goals by Strong and Sisveth Paneyuvang.

Strong also scored the Wildcats’ goal in their 1-1 tie against Denham Springs. Denham Springs tied the match within the last four minutes of regulation.

Dupuy said that Strong’s consistency and offensive efficiency this season has been aided by the assertiveness of his teammates, who have established themselves as threats to score and taken some of the heat off of the team’s offensive leader.

“He’s always been dangerous for us, but this year others have found opportunities,” said Dupuy. “All the pressure isn’t on him because we’re working the ball around and others are getting shots. DeChris is the guy finishing the most consistently, but guys are stepping up for us as threats.

“Now, defenses can’t just treat us like a one-weapon team.”

Strong’s play has been one factor in the team’s strong start. The defense has been another. Goalkeeper Rickey Williams and the team’s back line (Mario Barrera, Marco Barrera, Matthew Fobb, Eric Joseph, Isiah Montfort and Gabrial Richard have all logged time there) have been a plus this season.

“The defense has been consistent all year long,” said Dupuy. “We’ve got a good mix of youth and experience back there.”