ROSSVILLE – Rossville’s boys’ soccer team has a bit of a numbers problem.

The Hornets only have 11 players on their roster this season, meaning every player on the team will play a full 80 minutes. That’s great for those looking for the maximum amount of playing time, but not having the chance to grab a breather during a game could also be problematic.

“The most difficult part is preparing for practice because you don’t have the numbers to run games against each other,” Rossville head coach Joel Wilson said. “As far as the games, I think these guys will be ready. As long as they stay injury-free, these guys have the soccer knowledge and capability of being competitive with 11 guys.”

Four seniors – Joe Murphy, Kirk Holden, Justin Baker and Aron Long – make up the core of the team and were on the field for the biggest victory in the program’s history last year – a 3-2 win over McCutcheon in the sectional, giving the Hornets a spot in the championship game.

But RHS has to replace its top two scorers in Ian Brown and Kai Quinton, and Brown was among the state leaders in goals scored. Stepping in at forward in the Hornets’ 4-4-2 formation are seniors Long and Baker.

“I think it gives the guys that were in that group last year a lot of confidence,” Wilson said. “I’ve seen Aron and Justin step up offensively. We have a void and someone has to step up. I think they’re excited to take on that role.”

Although they’re listed as the two starting forwards, that won’t be a permanent role. Wilson said all 11 players will play multiple positions depending on what the opposing team’s strategy is.

In the midfield are expected to be a senior, Kirk Holden, and three freshmen: Austin Higbee, Cory Hufford and Zane Gottschalk.

Junior Eli Wilson returns as the goalkeeper, but could also see action in midfield because Higbee will also get a look in the net.

“We’re still kind of working things out,” Wilson said.