There won’t be as many nerves today as there were a year ago for the Perry boys soccer team.  The Bluejays open up their quest for the school’s first state title today at 2:45 when they battle the Sabers of Central Clinton Dewitt.  Perry secured a pair of one goal victories over Iowa Falls and Dallas Center Grimes to earn their second straight ticket to the tournament.  Central Clinton Dewitt enters 17-1 on the season with their only loss back on April 28th to Dyersville Beckman 3-2.  The Sabers picked up narrow wins over Assumption and North Scott to earn their second straight ticket to state.  CCD lost to Waverly Shell Rock 4-3 in the opening round a year ago.  Perry advanced all the way to the finals before losing to Norwalk 1-0.

“We know what to expect this year,” added goalie Jorge Soto.  “Last year was a little bit intimidating when you first arrived.  To see the crowd and the atmosphere.  It was totally different but really exciting.  I’m just happy to be back and give it another shot.”

The Perry defense will be tested by a talented front line for CCD.  The Sabers have scored 18 more goals than Perry this season with Ferre Devos leading the way with 70 points including a whopping 30 goals.

“Communication is always a key for our team,” smiled Perry veteran Oscar Chavez.  “When we communicate, we usually do pretty well.  I still think that we are communicating and talking even better this year compared to last year.  You get to state and everybody is good.  Everybody is fast and strong.  That’s what makes it so much fun.”

You can listen to Perry and Central Clinton Dewitt beginning at 2:30 today on KDLS and online at raccoonvalleyradio.com.  Jeremy Crawford and Tony Ayala will join Shawn Kenney with the call.