LAYTON — Just two minutes into Northridge's season-opener, Rich Callister was already fantasizing about the offensive juggernaut he'd be coaching throughout the year.

If the Knights could score that quickly against Bonneville, what would the 2002 season hold in store?

Was 100 goals realistic?

Well, not unless Northridge plans on playing 100 games.

Mitch Jolley's goal in the opening minutes was the Knights' lone tally, but that was all they needed in beating Bonneville 1-0 on Tuesday.

"Our back line are all seniors," said Callister. "They're our leaders. They're solid players, and we expect that from them."

Northridge's backline needed to be solid against Bonneville, particularly with all-stater Ken Hickman returning. The Lakers' striker, who trains with the Utah Blitzz during the summer, is known for his fancy footwork and making defenders look silly.

The Knights defense, highlighted by sweeper Spencer Lifferth and stopper Mitch Campbell, kept Hickman in check all game.

"Before the game our defense asked us how they should play him," said Northridge assistant Abel Ortiz. "We said 'play him like you'd play anyone else, but play smart.'"

Hickman did break through Northridge's stingy defense once, midway through the second half, but his breakaway shot sailed over the crossbar.

Other than that, Northridge's senior-laden defense stymied Bonneville's new-look team.

"We have a young team," said Bonneville coach Bill Fletcher. "We started five sophomores today, and they were nervous."

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Despite those nerves, Fletcher saw some promising things that he believes will help the Lakers contend for the Region 4 crown this year.

"I saw a lot of good work ethic, and I saw a lot of improvement as the game went on," said Fletcher.

While Fletcher was not too concerned about starting the year off on a sour note, Callister was thrilled with his team's opener.

"It's always important to win," said Callister. "It nice to start the year with a little confidence."

In other Tuesday games:

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JUDGE MEMORIAL 7, SOUTH SUMMIT 0:David Dean scored twice to lead the Bulldogs to the easy season-opening win.

HUNTER 3, OREM 1:Jason Farrimond, Chad Carlson and Shawn Clegg all scored to lead the Wolverines' scoring barrage. Orem's goal was scored by Allen Adams.

DELTA 3, SNOW CANYON 2:Jesus Muratalla found the net twice and Ricky Spencer added one to lead the Rabbits to a preseason win.


E-mail: jedward@desnews.com

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