SOUTH JORDAN -- Going undefeated in region play, particularly in the aggressive and competitive Region 2, is probably impossible. Even Hunter coach Tom Olson knows it would be an unlikely feat.
However, following the Wolverines' 2-1 win over Bingham Tuesday, which improved Olson's squad to 5-0, he said, "We're just starting to come together, and I mean no disrespect to the teams we've already played, but we still have a lot of upside."This isn't the first year Hunter's had upside, but in Olson's first year as coach, he's transforming the Wolverines into believers instead of doubters. Last year Hunter won a total of five games, and with seven remaining this year, its already duplicated that total.
The turnaround is the result of defense and goalkeeping.
Anchored by senior sweeper Brandon Farimond and sophomore keeper Jordan Jex, the Wolverines are playing perhaps the best defense in the state. They've shutout two of their five opponents, and Bingham's goal was the first one Hunter surrendered that wasn't on a penalty kick.
"We have a great group of five defenders that we rotate in and out," said Olson.
It's a good thing Hunter plays solid defensively, because despite its perfect record, its had difficulty finishing on offense.
Jeff White encountered no such problem 23 minutes into Tuesday's game as he scored from eight yards out.
Jumping out to the lead was nice, but Olson knew one goal wouldn't be enough, particularly with the wind. Hunter played with the strong wind at its back in the first half, and as a result the ball was on the Wolverines half of the field for much of that half.
Olson knew the scenario would flip-flop in the second half, that's why Darrin Harris' goal just before halftime was so critical.
"It's mostly psychological, but the ball hangs up in the air so much," said Olson.
It took the Miners less than a minute to take advantage of the gusty conditions, unfortunately for them, Jex was equal on both occasions. The first occurred 45 seconds into the half when Jex acrobatically punched the ball over the crossbar, and the second occurred when he made another incredible save on the ensuing corner kick.
The Miners were finally able to solve Jex's puzzle in the 69th minute when junior striker Tyler Ackerman blasted rocket in from 20 yards out. The goal came less than a minute after Farimond was yellow carded, leaving Hunter slightly shorthanded in the back.
Bingham had plenty of chances in the final 10 minutes, but the best it could do was hitting the crossbar twice.
"It seemed like it was never going to end," said Olson.