Last year's struggles seem to be way in the rear view for the WCHS boys soccer team. The Pioneers had one of their best weeks ever under coach August Palombo last week, capped by Thursday's impressive 4-0 victory over Sewanee at home. 

Brodie Cowans netted three goals in the victory and Caleb Hines scored for the fifth time in five games as Warren County improved to 3-2. It already topped last year's win total, when the Pioneers struggled to just two wins under the first-year coach.

Things look drastically different on the pitch this season though, particularly against the Mountain Lions.

"This was the most complete game we've played this season," said Palombo. "The movement, combination play and aggression was all present in this game."

Cowans made sure Warren County got off to a fast start, scoring in the first three minutes. He got on the board again right before the half, then completed his hat trick in the waning minutes when Warren County was in full control. It was another huge outing for the offense, which now has 13 goals in its last two outings.

"It was great to see the boys start on the front foot and grab the early goal. We've been stressing the necessity of starting out on a positive note," said Palombo.

Hines kept that aggressive mindset in the second half, putting in a score that his coach termed a "golazo," after the match (a term for a spectacular or impressive goal). 

Now that the Pioneers have tamed the Mountain Lions and Lions in back-to-back games (Warren County beat Cannon County 9-0 last Tuesday), the group has its sights set on district play. First up is Coffee County at home this Tuesday.

"We're happy with these results, but we realize the real work starts with district play," said Palombo. 

Tuesday's match will start at 7 p.m.