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Lebanon girls soccer preview


Lebanon

Coach: Crystal Zerbe, first season

Last year's record: 0-17-1

Key returners: Madison Hartman, Sr., MF/F; Katelyn Roth, Sr., D; Annabelle Deufel, So., MF.

Newcomers: Gabrielle Boyer, Fr., D.

Outlook: In more ways than one, the Cedars are starting over.

Roster turnover and a coaching change have simultaneously struck in Lebanon, where a back-to-basics approach was installed by new coach Crystal Zerbe during camp. Zerbe, who played at Kutztown, dedicated the team's preseason to fitness and skills development, focuses fueled by a positive atmosphere.

"We have a long way to go," Zerbe said. "But the attitude has been good so far. They're working hard."

Madison Hartman, a returning Section Two second-team all-star, is the Cedars' greatest reason for hope. She netted nine goals last year and will have the opportunity to strike early and often, especially in the club's season opener against Reading.

"We're hoping to win that game," Zerbe said. "But overall, we want to keep games competitive and keep improving."

Senior Katelyn Roth will spearhead the Lebanon defense, which allowed at least four goals after every kickoff but two a season ago. That unit should receive a shot in the arm from speedy freshman Gabrielle Boyer.