By Mike Rubin

Accomplishing one of their finest seasons in the program’s history, the Somerville High School boys soccer team is looking to duplicate last year’s success.

Following a 10-4-4 campaign along with a Greater Boston League title, the Highlanders advanced to the Eastern Mass Division 1 North semifinals before losing to Lincoln-Sudbury.

“We had a great season, and we were so close to being serious contenders for the state title,” said third year coach George Scarpelli. “It’s a three year plan, and nothing less than a state championship will do. Soccer has had a great tradition here in Somerville.”

Leading the way for the Highlanders are senior two-time GBL All-Star  and last year’s MVP Homero Morais, who also plays for the New England Revolution Under 18 team.

Other key catalysts for the Highlanders include defenseman and senior co-captain Toby Moynihan and midfielder Kevin Montiel.

“We have a strong midfield, and we’re going to be expecting them to do a lot this year,” said Scarpelli. “Defensively, we’re a little thin right now, so we’re going to use our midfield and capitalize on our opportunities. Offensively, we’re going to be strong, so we’re going to rely on our forwards to apply pressure.”

As for scorers, the Highlanders will also be guided by the senior duo of forwards Tony Pires and Rodrigues Pierre, both of whom delivered valuable contributions to the lineup.

Another forward that also might see some action will be sophomore track sensation Andre Rolim. Rolim, who is rated one of the top sprinters in the country, is slated to inherit the forward role.

“It can’t hurt having the fastest guy in the state on your team,” said Scarpelli. “We’re going to rely on him to really pick things up and create some scoring opportunities.”

As for goalkeeper, the Highlanders will be guided by second year netminder Bruno Souza, who’ll aim to keep opposing attackers at bay.

“Bruno has done a great job for us in the playoffs and in the regular season,” said Scarpelli. “I’m very pleased to see how the progress of the team is doing. We’re expecting to be one of the top teams to win the league and compete for the state title. We just have to put it all together.”

After scrimmaging Stoneham last Thursday, the Highlanders will kick off the season on Wednesday afternoon against Bedford in a non-league match at Dilboy Field.