Staff report

SALISBURY — Matt Parrish’s 14th season as Salisbury’s head boys soccer coach kicked off with a 1-0 win against South Rowan on Monday.

South had plenty of scoring chances in an eventful match, but Salisbury keeper Finnegan Avery made 15 saves.

David Austin scored in the first half for the Hornets.

“As is often the case so early, there were positives and negatives to take away from this one,” Parrish said. “We only have four returners in the same position and role as the 2023 team. Everyone else is a new player or a returner with a heightened degree of responsibility.”

It’s an unusually young Salisbury team, with six upperclassman and 15 underclassman, but it’s still Salisbury so the Hornets expect to win often.

“Our expectations do not reflect our youth,” Parrish said. “But we lost a decorated, senior-heavy back five and all of the experience that goes with that, and tonight, in South Rowan, we played a squad with several quality pieces. Both teams had several quality looks, but the most dangerous chances were off frame or a post.”

Mohammed Jabateh led the Salisbury defense, along with Sam Goodman, Johnathan Barrera Quintero and Henry Austin.

The Hornets’ goal came on a set piece. Abdul Eliwa found David Austin on a corner, and Austin’s header provided the margin of victory.

“One of the biggest keys to our success will be the temperament and maturity of our key offensive pieces, particularly the upperclassmen,” Parrish said. “Until the newer players step up and become acclimated with their roles and responsibilities, opportunities will be less frequent than they were last season. Staying positive and becoming leaders is paramount. We’re a work in progress, but I know we can get there.”

Next up for the Hornets is a road trip to Trinity on Wednesday at 6 p.m. South is scheduled to take on Thomasville on Wednesday.

Monday scores

NW Cabarrus 2, Mallard Creek 1

Robinson 9, West Charlotte 0

Concord 9, Mount Pleasant 0

Salisbury 1, South Rowan 0

Pine Lake Prep 3, Lake Norman Charter 0