JEFFERSON CITY, Tenn.- We continue on with previewing the 2022 Carson-Newman men's soccer season by taking a glance at the Eagles midfielders.
Leading the senior-laden midfield group is Yannick Kranz. The Hannover, Germany native is coming off his best season with the Eagles. He led the team in assists with six and was one of four Eagles to play in all 16 games in 2021. Kranz scored two goals, the first coming at home against Mars Hill on Sep. 15 and the other two weeks later at home against Tusculum.
"I always try to help the team with assists or goals," Kranz said. "I think I was really sharp and had a good fitness, so I think that's the main important thing for a good season."
Three other midfielders are also seniors. Matheus Maia is back with the Eagles for a 5th season. He has played in 31 career games, scoring four goals and two assists. Jannik Schulte returns after making three starts in 2021, along with Gabe Stevens who appeared in one game.
Daniel McIlory returns for his sophomore season. As a freshman, he competed in eight matches, recording one assist.
Leading the group of newcomers is graduate student Ewan Lynch. Lynch transfers in from the University of Indianapolis. During his time there, he played in 68 career games. Over the course of four years, the Englishmen scored three goals, while padding on three assists. He earned the GLVC Council of Presidents' Academic Excellence Award after maintaining at least a 3.5 GPA throughout his academic career.
There are three other additions to the midfield position group. Paul Csmarich joins C-N from Vienna, Austria. Isaac Pascal comes to Mossy Creek from Southend-on-Sea, England, and staying close to home is Cooper Cross. He is from Knoxville and attended Bearden High school.
"I think we will have a really good team," Kranz said. "The returners and newcomers have looked really sharp and have made really good impressions. I really look forward for the season."
We wrap up our men's soccer position previews with a look at the defenders and goalkeepers with Ben King scheduled for release on Tuesday. Carson-Newman opens up the season this coming Thursday, Aug. 25 at home when it takes on West Alabama.
