Majors Men's Soccer Team Looks Forward To 2004

Coach Lee Johnson was naturally disappointed with the results of the recently finished 2003 campaign, but sees brighter times ahead. Millsaps finished the year 5-12 overall, 1-8 in the SCAC (9th).

Injuries to key players and a heartbreaking last second mid-season loss to league power Rhodes made things difficult for the Majors. Millsaps was 5-5 and coming off of a shutout win over Hendrix as Rhodes invaded Jackson for an October SCAC battle. And what a battle it was as the Majors fought ferociously and held their own against the talented Lynx in a knock-down drag-out affair. It all came down to a penalty kick with no time left in regulation as Rhodes escaped with a 2-1 victory.

"I think that started our down swing. It was such a tough loss and was truly heartbreaking for the kids," said Johnson. The game marked the beginning of a season ending 7 game losing skid.

Adam Barnes had an outstanding year and was rewarded with an All-SCAC 3rd team selection. Barnes was ranked 8th in the SCAC in shots per game (2.53), 8th in scoring (1.33 points per game), and tied for 8th in goals per game (0.53). Goalie Derek Anderson was 1st in the league in saves (7.25 per game) and 7th in shutouts with 3.5.

Seniors who will be missed from the 2003 team include Anderson, Barnes, Rimmer Covington, Brent Guitreau, Trey Kelley, Vince Mazzone, Trey McClain, and Ned Welles.

"With the improvement in our possession game, next year seems to be a lot more promising" said Johnson. "We will have a young team with only one senior, which also bodes well for the foreseeable future."